R&D

Computer server room racks with technician in background.
A Collaborative Initiative for Industry 4.0 Advancement

In collaboration with the Chinese and German governments' Industry 4.0 initiative, a partnership between Shanghai University of Applied Sciences, Technical University of Darmstadt in Germany, and Yangtze Delta Region Institute of Tsinghua University, Zhejiang, was forged in 2021. This collaboration aims to spearhead the digital and intelligent transformation of the manufacturing industry and enhance Sino-German scientific and technological exchanges. The result was the establishment of the 'Sino-German Digital Twin Berlin Test Platform,' a significant milestone stemming from the groundbreaking CaMpuS project, jointly led by the Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology and the German Ministry of Education and Research. Notably, this platform marks the inception of the first digital twin demonstration and testing facility established overseas by Chinese research institutions, universities, and enterprises.

Versatile Modules for Tailored Functionality

Comprising various industrial-grade modules such as pneumatic picking, conveyance, and stacking modules, the platform offers versatility and adaptability for specific functions. These modules integrate seamlessly with the 'Digital Twin Factory' application on the Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences' public testing platform, establishing a robust virtual-physical interactive testing environment via cloud services like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud. Terminal devices, including Holo-Lens 2, HTC Vive Pro, personal computers, tablets, and mobile phones, can securely connect to the public test station in Berlin. Through the 'Digital Twin Factory' application, bidirectional control facilitates interaction with manufacturing execution systems (MES), programmable logic controllers (PLC), and interconnected sensors or actuators.

Empowering Future Innovations and Collaborations

Future enhancements to the Digital Twin Testbed Center will integrate advanced cloud-based production order management, single actuator control execution, and model-based preventive and predictive maintenance functions. This initiative marks the first cloud-based digital twin test platform for Chinese research institutions overseas. Supported by the Department of Data Processing in Engineering (DiK) of the TU Darmstadt, Shanghai Institute of Technology, and BTC, this collaboration aims to empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by guiding them through automation transformation and elevating their production lines' intelligence and informatization levels.

Our Research Fields
Advanced Manufacturing Technology

Our institute pioneers advanced manufacturing technologies, collaborating with industry to commercialize innovations in robotics, instrumentation, and automation. Through specialized labs, we deliver solutions for food safety, chemical processing, and clinical testing, fueling regional industrial growth.

Environmental Technology and Ecology

Established in 2006 by Tsinghua University, our department develops and commercializes environmental technologies in the Yangtze Delta Region. As part of China's National Environmental Protection Technology Center, we create demonstration projects and support sustainable industry growth through innovation and expert collaboration.

Food and Agricultural Technology

Founded in 2014 with Tsinghua University's expertise, our department drives innovation in ecological agriculture, smart machinery, and sustainable farming to enhance food security. Through specialized research groups, we develop and commercialize technologies while attracting top talent to advance agricultural modernization.

Biotechnoloy and Biomedicine

Established in 2006, we specialize in cutting-edge biomedical technologies including enzyme research and immunodetection to support national development and healthcare sectors. With a team of 15 experts, we've completed over 20 government projects and hold 8 patents, advancing innovation in food safety, clinical testing, and biomedical standards.

Information Technology

Founded at the forefront of IT innovation, we specialize in next-generation technologies like cloud computing, network security, and microelectronics to support national strategic needs. With top-tier labs, industry partnerships (IBM, Huawei, etc.), and over 40 research papers, we’re building a world-class R&D hub that bridges cutting-edge research with industrial applications.

Analysis and Testing

Established in 2014, our Analysis and Test Center develops innovative "safety and health" technologies for environmental and food testing, combining big data with advanced instrumentation to bridge research and industry. As a national and regional hub with 50+ experts, we've completed 100+ projects, secured 20+ patents, and partnered with government and industry to transform cutting-edge research into practical solutions.