FUSION
The FUSION project at the University of Siegen is collaborating with regional stakeholders to explore the future of South Westphalia. The focus is on the sustainable transformation of this rural-industrial region—addressing issues ranging from the climate crisis and digital development to the shortage of skilled workers.
Project Description
The FUSION project (“Transformation of the Rural-Industrialized Region as a Field of Action for the University of Siegen”) has been conducting research since 2023 on sustainable future prospects for South Westphalia. Launched by the “Innovative University” initiative of the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology, and Space (BMFTR), FUSION combines scientific expertise with practical regional knowledge.
Focus Areas of Our Department
The Chair of High-Frequency Engineering and Quantum Electronics contributes its expertise in the field of sensor technology:
- Sensor-based monitoring systems: Development of high-frequency sensors for real-time monitoring of hydrogen infrastructure (leak detection, pressure and temperature monitoring in pipelines)
- Quantum-based measurement technology: Precision measurements for the decarbonization of industrial processes using highly sensitive sensors
- Communication technology: Secure data transmission for networked monitoring systems in regional energy infrastructure
- Material characterization: High-frequency-based analysis of materials for the retrofitting of gas networks for hydrogen operation
The interdisciplinary project group offers the HQE Chair the opportunity to apply its technological expertise directly to the practical decarbonization of regional industries while simultaneously opening up new fields of application for high-frequency technology and quantum electronics.
Everything at a glance
-
Duration
January 1, 2023 – December 31, 2027 (Ongoing) -
Research Area
Regional Studies & Transformation Research -
Funding
BMFTR & GWK
subproject
Structural Development, Networking & Coordination
This cross-cutting initiative serves as the organizational backbone of the project. It ensures the strategic coordination of all activities, promotes collaboration among the various sub-projects, and builds strong networks between the university, local governments, and regional stakeholders.
Work & Digital Technology
TV2 is collaborating with regional SMEs to develop a machine park specialized in small-batch production, incorporating innovative IT components and guided by the principle of computer-aided skilled work. New manufacturing techniques such as additive manufacturing, sensor integration in tools, and multimodal technologies (e.g., augmented reality) are being developed to utilize material cycles and expand business models.
Resource Conservation & Decarbonization
TV3 supports regional industry in exploring innovative production technologies, supply chains, and mobility concepts with the goal of saving energy and reducing CO₂ emissions. Hydrogen (H₂) plays a central role throughout the entire value chain.
Specific priorities:
- Development of a decarbonization strategy for regional SMEs, municipal utilities, network operators, and mobility providers
- Upgrading existing natural gas networks for safe hydrogen operation (including pipeline infrastructure and fittings)
- Holistic mobility concepts for rural areas (for employees and citizens)
- Interdisciplinary collaboration in real-world laboratory projects
Disciplines: Materials science, mechanical engineering, sensor technology, computer science
Health & Aging
TV4 develops practical, digitally supported solutions to ensure the quality of health and long-term care services in rural areas. Through participatory approaches, new preventive concepts are tested in collaboration with citizens, experts, and researchers, with a focus on promoting physical activity, intersectoral cooperation, and assistive tele-technologies.
Social Issues & Inclusion
This subproject aims to make access to social services more transparent, accessible, and locally available. The focus is on support for people with disabilities, psychiatric care, and assistance and care for the elderly, with the goal of enabling them to live independently in their own homes. Decentralized “participation and care centers” (TePS) are being tested as pilot projects.
Cultural Aspects & Post-Growth
TV6 focuses on social and cultural participation, educational equity, and the development of alternative lifestyles. Projects include the Wanderspace (REGIONALE 2025), the food-sharing movement in Siegen, and the fusion-LAB, an urban and regional laboratory that brings citizens, students, and researchers together in dialogue.
Regional Development Strategy
TV7 is strengthening the ties between the University of Siegen and the South Westphalia region in light of the upcoming transformation. Stakeholders from politics, business, society, and civil society are brought together at various levels to establish a cyclical process: identifying transformation needs, developing solutions in real-world laboratories, consolidating them into innovation concepts, and validating them with the region.
