180 companies and scientists in talks on sensor

The second meeting of the innovation network of Sensor Universe was held on 27 November in Havelte. The group that actively seeks new sensor applications under the name 'Sense for Society' is beginning to take on a central role in the aim of building up a leading sensor technology cluster in the Northern Netherlands.

The second meeting of the innovation network of Sensor Universe was held on 27 November in Havelte. The group that actively seeks new sensor applications under the name 'Sense for Society' is beginning to take on a central role in the aim of building up a leading sensor technology cluster in the Northern Netherlands.

In the information society of the future sensor technology will play a vital role in gaining tighter control of complex processes, such as those in the areas of mobility, healthcare or the management of energy networks. The innovation network of Sensor Universe brings together three groups of companies that are able to develop smart control concepts in areas such as these. The companies involved include those making sensor technology, IT companies that process sensor data and companies that make the process control technology to ultimate steer the processes. This field of "intelligent controls" presents hugely promising opportunities for companies. The Sensor Universe network sets out to take up those opportunities and bring them to fruition. At last week's meeting there were also many future users of sensor technology such as hospitals, farmers, sea ports, public authorities and countless large northern companies wishing to use sensors in their production process.

The meeting was opened by Henk A. Koopmans, managing director of Sensor Universe. After that Goossen Boers, CEO of Photonis, made a big impression with his plans for a new factory in Roden to produce sensors intended to improve the vision of motorists in the dark. Hans Praat of the NOM (coordinator of the innovation network for Sensor Universe) followed this up by explaining the seven theme groups that have now been formed. He also launched the new website (www.senseforsociety.com). This is an interactive website where the participants provide the content and which includes forums, blogs, profiles and discussion groups and closed project areas. The website is intended as an online meeting place for people and companies concerned with sensor technology. Most of the meeting was held in smaller groups in which sensor companies and future users talked about new applications.

Sense for Society is organised by Sensor Universe and the NOM. The meeting will be held twice a year. For more information, please contact Hans Praat  (praat@nom.nl) or Henk A. Koopmans (koopmans@sensoruniverse.com).