The power of 3D inspection, from aerospace to MedTech

Reliable 3D inspection has a direct impact across sectors:

• In aerospace and energy, to detect micro-defects before they compromise safety
• In automotive and manufacturing, to validate precision parts quickly and non-destructively
• In MedTech applications, where minimally invasive imaging is key.

These tools reduce downtime, improve reliability in confined environments and cut costs by avoiding unnecessary interventions. They bring laboratory-grade optical precision to field-ready inspection applications. Such optical technology has the potential to redefine quality control and diagnostics.

Turning interferometry into a compact, reliable tool

Pushing the limits of optical innovation, the Lambda-X Verhaert High-Tech team and IT Concepts developed a compact interferometric 3D borescope, overcoming several technical barriers in the process: 

• Avoiding mechanical movement inside the probe, while still enabling the optical path difference scans of the temporal domain OCT.
• Maintaining light injection stability in fiber-based setups.
• Transmitting coherent information through flexible fiber bundles to a camera.
• Miniaturizing all components’ design to fit into an 8 mm probe head without losing performance.

The result is a proof-of-concept 3D borescope that demonstrates how interferometry can be adapted for compact and flexible use. For life sciences, this could mean:

• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) imaging for high-resolution depth scans.
• An optical design for polarization control to preserve signal quality.
• A 3D camera integrating pixel-level demodulation (Heliotis heliSens) for real-time interferometric imaging.
• A double interferometer setup to keep the scanning mechanism outside the probe head.
• Fiber-bundle validation transport of the sample interference image.

Step by step, each subsystem was tested and validated under rigorous frameworks – ISO9001 and EN9100 – before integration into a working demonstrator.

From optical expertise to industrial impact

Turning these concepts into reality takes more than clever design. It requires a blend of deep optical and interferometry expertise, precision engineering for system integration and structured R&D. By combining interferometry know-how with industrial-grade processes, we co-develop tailor-made optical systems that translate advanced methods like OCT into robust, field-ready tools the industry can rely on.

The result is a major step toward next-generation 3D borescopes: compact, flexible and precise. By systematically solving the challenges of interferometric imaging in tight geometries, we’re paving the way for practical tools that can transform industrial inspection.

High-tech optical innovation is redefining what’s possible for industry. Curious to know more about  3D precision in deployable systems? Let’s discuss your optical challenges!

The post High-tech optics for industry: A new generation of 3D borescopes appeared first on Verhaert Masters in Innovation.

The post High-tech optics for industry: A new generation of 3D borescopes appeared first on Verhaert Masters in Innovation.

1. Automation is no longer optional; it’s the next big leap

Across the halls, one megatrend stood out: the accelerating shift toward hyper-automation. From AI-driven predictive maintenance to high-speed robotic systems, it’s clear that the industry is leaning heavily toward digital tools to boost efficiency and precision. We noted particularly compelling technologies, such as magnetic levitation systems designed to reduce friction and lower energy consumption, that point to real gains in both performance and sustainability.

For organizations navigating these changes, the challenge lies in identifying which technologies offer measurable value and how to implement them effectively within existing operations. It’s a complex landscape, but one that offers real opportunity for those willing to explore, adapt, and invest with purpose.

2. Humanoid robots: hype or hope?

From packaging tasks to performing simple functions in unpredictable environments, humanoid robots were one of the more attention-grabbing developments at this year’s fair. While widespread adoption is likely still several years off, the technology is advancing quickly, and its potential applications are broadening.

Unlike traditional robots optimized for fixed, repetitive tasks, humanoids are being designed for more flexible roles in dynamic settings, such as logistics, agriculture, or construction. They’re not intended to replace existing automation but to fill gaps where adaptability and environmental awareness are required.

For organizations exploring automation strategies, this emerging category raises important questions about ROI, technical feasibility, and integration. While the hype is noticeable, it’s also a moment to start thinking critically about where and when these systems might offer practical value for your organization.

3. Digitization + AI = The real industrial revolution

Digitization is no longer a future ambition, it’s the underlying infrastructure of today’s industrial landscape. From expansive cloud platforms to AI-powered simulation tools, the integration of digital technologies is reshaping how products are designed and manufactured.

This wave of change is more than technology, it’s an organizational shift. It calls for cross-functional collaboration, open innovation, and bold experimentation to bridge digital and physical worlds, whether through AI, software-defined hardware, or integrated engineering platforms. For many, the path forward to connected ecosystems involves navigating complex questions and breaking down siloed thinking.

Rather than viewing digitalization as a one-time investment, it may be more useful to see it as a long-term transformation. One that requires both strategic clarity and operational flexibility.

4. Hydrogen: From hype to hard reality

Hydrogen technologies have clearly moved beyond the prototype phase. At Hannover Messe, we saw practical, scalable solutions – such as Bosch Rexroth’s liquid hydrogen station operating at -270°C and 900 bar – that reflect growing maturity and industrial relevance. Use cases are expanding across mobility, energy infrastructure and industrial systems.

As organizations face mounting pressure to reduce CO₂ emissions and meet evolving climate regulations, hydrogen is emerging as a critical enabler. Not only in energy strategies but also in how products are conceived and developed. For innovators, this presents an opportunity to build hydrogen-ready systems and components that can help customers meet sustainability goals without compromising performance or cost-efficiency.

The key question isn’t just how to adopt hydrogen technologies, but how to embed them into products that give end users a competitive edge. That’s where product innovation plays a central role: turning emerging capabilities into market-ready solutions that solve real problems and create measurable value.

5. Industry 4.0 is evolving, let’s embrace Manufacturing-X

The vision of Industry 4.0 is evolving into something more integrated and ambitious: Manufacturing-X. This emerging framework brings together AI-driven insights, cognitive ergonomics, digital twins, and open data ecosystems to create manufacturing that’s smarter, faster, and more responsive. It’s not just about improving existing processes; it’s about fundamentally rethinking how products are designed, made, and brought to market.

For product innovators, this means embracing greater agility and intelligence throughout the entire product lifecycle, from virtual prototyping to gathering real-time field data. The result? Products that are more adaptive, user-centered, and capable of meeting ever-changing customer demands and market conditions.

The core technologies – smart sensors, robotics, 5G, and integrated IT/OT systems – are already within reach. The real challenge is how to orchestrate them to create products that don’t just function well, but that win in the market. This shift requires a new way of thinking: moving from isolated solutions to designing systems, from automation to intelligence, and from simply efficiency to broader ecosystem thinking.

Innovation with purpose: Seen at Hannover Messe

True innovation isn’t about following the latest trends; it’s about solving real problems with the right tools, at the right time. What stood out at Hannover Messe wasn’t just the technology on display, but the clear direction emerging across industries: companies are focused on finding smarter, more efficient ways to build, operate, and deliver products that truly matter.

From creating cleaner energy systems to integrating AI in manufacturing and rethinking the way digital and physical worlds merge, the opportunity lies in turning complex challenges into competitive advantages. This is where true product and digital innovation happen: developing solutions that not only meet today’s needs but also give your customers a clear edge in a fast-evolving market.

As organizations face new challenges and rising expectations, the key to success will be the ability to innovate with purpose: combining strategy, technology, and user-centric insight to create outcomes that go beyond technical solutions and deliver genuine value. If you’re ready to take the next step in transforming your products and digital capabilities, we’re here to support you. Let’s collaborate to turn your vision into real, impactful solutions that lead the way in tomorrow’s market.

The post Hannover Messe 2025: Forging the future of innovation together appeared first on Verhaert Masters in Innovation.

The post Hannover Messe 2025: Forging the future of innovation together appeared first on Verhaert Masters in Innovation.

The CE marking and the new machinery regulation

The CE marking is essential for products entering the European market. It signifies that a product is compliant with EU safety, health, and environmental standards. Typically, manufacturers are responsible for ensuring their products meet these requirements, but in some cases, importers or distributors may also bear this responsibility. The process involves identifying relevant directives, verifying product-specific requirements, conducting conformity tests and preparing technical documentation before affixing the CE marking and issuing an EU Declaration of Conformity.

However, with the introduction of the new Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230, compliance is becoming more complex. Unlike the old directive, which allowed for varying national interpretations, this regulation applies uniformly across all EU member states. This will create more of a level playing field in the market. The new regulation also introduces stricter safety and cybersecurity requirements, addressing advancements in AI and autonomous systems. These changes aim to enhance product safety while providing greater legal clarity for manufacturers, importers, and distributors alike.

Key changes in the new machinery regulation

1. From directive to regulation:
   The main difference in this shift lies in how the law is applied across EU member states. The new regulation is directly applicable across the EU, eliminating national discrepancies in enforcement. This also means stricter requirements for compliance and CE marking will be enforced.
2. Expanded definitions
   The regulation includes new categories like ‘related products’. This refers to items like safety parts (ex. emergency stop buttons and sensors that detect human presence) and interchangeable equipment (add-ons or attachments). Additionally, there are specific safety requirements for AI-driven machines and those with self-learning capabilities. Since these machines are on the rise, there’s a greater need to ensure they remain safe even after deployment.
3. Mandatory digital documentation
   Under the new regulation, user manuals must be available in a digital format. However, it must always be accessible offline as well. If the machinery is used by non-professional users (e.g., general consumers rather than trained industry workers), manufacturers must still provide paper copies of critical safety instructions (such as quick start guides).
4. Increased conformity requirements
   To future-proof machinery, the regulation makes sure emerging technologies are safe, secure, and reliable before they enter the market. This means that machines with AI, autonomous functions or self-learning software will need additional assessments by a recognized body. Cybersecurity measures will be more stringent, ensuring software can’t be hacked or manipulated.
5. New obligations for manufacturers, importers and distributors
   Manufacturers will now also need to perform risk assessments for AI-driven machinery. Importers and distributors are responsible for ensuring compliance and removing unsafe machines from the market.

Why should you get into action now?

Some companies might wait to take compliance measures until the minimal requirements are clarified or to avoid unnecessarily straining resources, but doing so comes with risks. Companies that adapt early will have a smoother transition, which reduces last-minute compliance costs, avoids potential delays in product launches and gives you a market advantage. Failing to meet the new standards by 2027 could even lead to product recalls, sales bans, or legal issues. At the same time, some of the requirements aren’t just for new products but also for current ones. Cybersecurity measures and AI-related assessments, for example, might require software updates. And updating documentation and adjusting conformity procedures can take time, so a head start is beneficial.

An invitation to innovation

What if the new EU Machinery Regulation could be an invitation to innovate rather than a reluctant race to minimal compliance? Instead of asking, ‘What’s the minimum we need to do to comply?’, we asked ourselves, ‘How can this new regulation inspire us to create better products and services?’.

• The new obligations for manufacturers, importers and distributors, for example, encourage a more collaborative value chain. This is an opportunity to rethink how partners work together to create safer, more intelligent products, from design to deployment.
• Providing mandatory digital manuals is the perfect opportunity to make user guidance smarter and more interactive. Why stop at static PDFs when digital user manuals could evolve into dynamic support platforms with tutorials, troubleshooting assistance, or predictive maintenance insights?
• The new regulation pushes manufacturers to integrate cybersecurity and safety-by-design principles into their machines. But why stop there? Designing machines with built-in connectivity, data insights and remote monitoring not only improves safety, it can unlock whole new business models. Think predictive maintenance, pay-per-use models or servitization.
• The expanded definitions, including safety components and interchangeable equipment, encourage companies to view these parts not just as isolated components but as integral, modular building blocks. Designing products with standardized and replaceable modules makes it easier to repair, upgrade and extend product lifecycles, unlocking new business models based on upgradability and performance services.

How can you get started?

A new regulation like this can seem quite overwhelming. So to ensure a smooth and cost-effective transition to the new Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230, here’s how you can get started today!

1. Understand the new requirements: Identify key changes affecting your products, keep an eye on updates from the EU and industry bodies and compare your existing processes, documentation, and product designs against the new regulation.
2. Prioritize high-risk areas: If your products have AI, self-learning, or remote connectivity, plan for extra conformity assessments by a Notified Body, start implementing cybersecurity measures and develop a digital documentation strategy.
3. Test and certify early: Schedule evaluations by third parties well in advance to avoid bottlenecks, conduct internal compliance testing and update technical documentation.
4. Train teams and prepare for market entry: Ensure your teams and supply chain contributors understand the new requirements and their role in compliance and plan for labeling and CE marking updates.
5. Full compliance? Ensure all new machinery meets requirements and monitor post-market compliance.

In conclusion

The transition to the Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 clearly marks a significant shift in the industry. And while the full enforcement date may seem distant, waiting until the last minute could lead to rushed compliance efforts, higher costs, and potential market disruptions. By taking a proactive approach, manufacturers, importers, and distributors can minimize risks, ensure a smoother transition and gain a competitive advantage. Every step taken today brings you closer to seamless compliance. The machinery industry is evolving, and those who act early will not only meet the new standards but also position themselves as leaders in innovation and safety. Now is the time to prepare, adapt, and future-proof your business.

The post From directive to regulation: Navigating the shift in machinery compliance appeared first on Verhaert Masters in Innovation.

The post From directive to regulation: Navigating the shift in machinery compliance appeared first on Verhaert Masters in Innovation.

As robotics become essential to meet labor needs, the demand for precision and fail-proof solutions is skyrocketing. So why aren’t these autonomous solutions getting adopted more quickly? Well, these robotic systems tend to be complex. Tackling ever-changing variables in the use case and environment requires an integrated, customized approach. In this track, we’ll dive into the exciting world of Industry 4.0, exploring how to cut through the complexity and bring these game-changing solutions to market. Faster, smarter and ready to achieve rapid impact. Check out the presentations from the Innovation Day of 2024 on:

• Open innovation to accelerate Industry 4.0
  By Guus Colman, Consultant EmbeddedLab and Klaas Hofman, Consultant EmbeddedLab at Verhaert Product Innovation
• Modular design to make custom robotics accessible
  Thomas Goossens, Mechanical Design Engineer at Verhaert On-site Consulting

View the presentation

The post Robotics as a catalyst for global innovation appeared first on Verhaert Masters in Innovation.

The post Robotics as a catalyst for global innovation appeared first on Verhaert Masters in Innovation.

Direct air capture (DAC): extracting CO₂ from the atmosphere

Imagine a world where we possess the power to extract carbon dioxide (CO₂) directly from the air. Although the technology has existed for years, the concept might sound like science fiction, right? However, it’s a tangible reality: the groundbreaking technology is called direct air capture. Imagine DAC as a giant vacuum cleaner of the atmosphere, snatching up CO₂ molecules as you effortlessly vacuum dust from your carpet.

The power of DAC: contributing to clean energy solutions

Ventilation systems are integral to direct air capture (DAC) processes, especially in large buildings or factories where they play a crucial role. These systems actively draw in substantial amounts of air, using specialized filters to absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂). These filters are key components composed of solid or liquid materials with an affinity for trapping CO₂.

Once these filters have absorbed a sufficient amount of CO₂, the challenge is to release it. Heat becomes the solution as it’s utilized to extract and expel the captured CO₂ from the filters. This process involves leveraging the thermal energy to facilitate the release of the trapped carbon dioxide.

Direct air capture (DAC) offers more than air cleansing capabilities. When combined with bioenergy processes, carbon capture and storage facilitates the production of emission-free green energy, including hydrogen-based fuels. This symbiotic integration provides clean power for homes and vehicles, further solidifying DAC as a solution contributing to environmental sustainability and the energy sector.

A transformative solution, balancing economic intelligence with environmental sustainability

Playing a crucial role in the battle against climate change, direct air capture (DAC) contributes to reducing CO₂ levels and, in essence, provides the Earth with fresh air.

Direct air capture (DAC) stands out for its economic promise, particularly when integrated with current heating and cooling infrastructure and tapping into residual thermal energy. It becomes increasingly cost-efficient, especially with the financial incentives offered through emission trading schemes and carbon removal credits. The challenge lies in developing durable filter materials. Yet, with ongoing technological advancements and supportive regulatory frameworks, DAC is up for a transformative role, offering substantial benefits for businesses and the environment.

What makes DAC even more remarkable is its economic viability. Leveraging existing ventilation systems and utilizing residual heat, DAC has proven to be a cost-effective solution, adding a touch of economic magic to its environmental impact. Here, there is a potential breakthrough technology. By making direct air capture (DAC) small and affordable enough and integrating it into air conditioning systems (which already provide air circulation and heating/cooling – exactly what our DAC needs), this technology could be a game-changer.

However, another challenge arises: how do we ensure that something meaningful happens with the captured CO₂ in all these air conditioning systems? This question shows the need for a comprehensive approach to address besides the capture also the subsequent utilization or storage of the collected carbon dioxide. It opens the door to exploring innovative solutions and creating a holistic framework to manage effectively the captured CO₂ within carbon capture systems (both direct air capture DAC, as well as point source capture).

In addressing the sustainability challenge, DAC unravels a paradox. It showcases that being environmentally conscious and economically savvy are not mutually exclusive. DAC serves as a model that demonstrates the harmonious coexistence of eco-friendliness and economic intelligence.

So, next time you hear about DAC, remember it’s like a superhero vacuum cleaner that cleans our air and powers our future!

‘The Sustainability Paradox’ seminar

Intrigued by the potential of DAC? We invite you to join our upcoming seminar ‘The Sustainability Paradox’.  This seminar aims to provide you with a guide on how companies, both large and small, can navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by DAC.

Source: VITO

The post Breathing sustainability: direct air capture technology appeared first on Verhaert Masters in Innovation.

The post Breathing sustainability: direct air capture technology appeared first on Verhaert Masters in Innovation.

Rapidly-evolving innovation landscape

As technology continues to evolve, customer preferences shift, and market demands change, staying ahead of the competition has become more complex than ever. And while many companies are already embracing the efficiency gains through AI, like ChatGPT and LLMs, it won’t give you a true competitive edge. You have to find growth avenues beyond productivity that genuinely revolutionize your products and services. So how do you push the boundaries of innovation with digital solutions?

AI beyond productivity gains

While increasing efficiency is important, AI’s capabilities extend to various other domains and present exciting opportunities for transformative change. From autonomous systems and personalization to energy optimization and product improvements. By leveraging AI’s capabilities, you can foster continuous improvement and innovation to stay at the forefront of your industry. During the ‘AI-infused innovation’ seminar, you’ll gain insights from Jeroen Baert, imec, BNP Paribas Fortis and Verhaert Digital innovation on how to successfully revolutionize your business with AI:

• 9h00 – Event introduction
• 9h30 – Navigating the AI playground (Jeroen Baert)
• 10h00 – Cracking the AI code (Verhaert Digital Innovation)
• 10h30 – Advancing AI horizons (imec)
• 11h00 – Maximizing the AI potential (BNP Paribas Fortis)
• 11h30 – Walking lunch networking

Interested in the AI-infused innovation seminar on September 12th in Westerlo? Visit the event page to register or find more information about the sessions.

The post Verhaert Digital organizes ‘AI-infused innovation’ seminar with BNP Paribas Fortis, imec & Jeroen Baert appeared first on Verhaert Masters in Innovation.

The post Verhaert Digital organizes ‘AI-infused innovation’ seminar with BNP Paribas Fortis, imec & Jeroen Baert appeared first on Verhaert Masters in Innovation.

Difficulties in minimally-invasive surgery

Although minimally-invasive spine surgery offers many benefits, current (manual) needle and instrument navigation relies on an iterative, rigid and assumed constant spine position based on X-ray imaging. “Because of surgical dynamicity and patient movements, this kind of navigation is unreliable and imprecise”, explains Michiel Twisk, Program Coordinator Life Sciences at Verhaert, “It also causes unwanted radiation exposure for everyone in the operating room. In-patient navigation remains a challenging task, especially combined with complex instrumentation dexterity. Ultimately this simply affects the patient outcome as mistakes are made.”

Guaranteeing high accuracy and safety

The innovative robotic technology platform taps into the power of multi-modal sensing and digital twin technology, combining pre-operative MRI or CT scans, intraoperative 3D ultrasound, optical and magnetic tracking. With REISS, pre-operative planning and effective execution become a reality. An optimal approach toward the herniated disk is determined by the surgeon which is then supported or facilitated by the REISS robot during surgery, eliminating trial-and-error navigation. This is done by compensating for vertebrae disc movement, a re-positioned patient and patient breathing. It contributes to patient safety, outcome and reduced X-ray exposure, as well as reducing effective operation time and allowing the surgeon to treat more patients on a daily basis.

Revolutionizing patient care worldwide

By enabling new surgeries and expanding the range of applications, these advancements are revolutionizing patient care, increasing surgical precision and reducing potential risks. “We’re committed to disrupting the status quo in healthcare and engineering breakthrough technologies to improve people’s lives”, continues Kaat Dhondt, Manager Innovation Acceleration Life Sciences at Verhaert. “The rapid evolution of technology opens up many opportunities for healthcare companies to reduce procedural time, shorten hospital stays, and minimize infection risks, ultimately benefiting countless patients worldwide.”

Want to know more about how this project is pushing the boundaries of medical innovation? Check out our perspective!

The post Verhaert’s autonomous minimally-invasive robotic spine surgery technologies revolutionize healthcare appeared first on Verhaert Masters in Innovation.

The post Verhaert’s autonomous minimally-invasive robotic spine surgery technologies revolutionize healthcare appeared first on Verhaert Masters in Innovation.

Room for improvement

Although minimally-invasive surgery offers many benefits, there’s still quite some room for improvement. To start, the current procedure requires X-ray imaging for localization inside the patient. This not only leads to frequent radiation exposure for everyone in the operating room, it also provides limited 2D visibility. On top of that, it also means the slightest movement, whether through patient breathing, body movement or repositioning by the surgeon, makes the images outdated. In short, radiation exposure, precision, visibility and real-time validity could all be improved.

Or check out the key features in the video below!

The post A new era in minimally-invasive spine surgery appeared first on Verhaert Masters in Innovation.

The post A new era in minimally-invasive spine surgery appeared first on Verhaert Masters in Innovation.

The post Wave energy: the new frontier of renewable energy? appeared first on Verhaert Masters in Innovation.

The post Wave energy: the new frontier of renewable energy? appeared first on Verhaert Masters in Innovation.

Bridging the funding gaps

One of the critical challenges discussed, is the need to bring research and start-up funding to a European Union (EU) level and to find the right balance between local and EU-level funding initiatives. Because while some projects may benefit from local government support, there’s a growing recognition that pooling resources at the EU level can lead to greater collaboration, efficiency, and impact.

Empowering student entrepreneurs

To foster the growth of start-up companies, there’s a call to simplify the ownership transfer of intellectual property (IP) from universities back to the students. This shift would enable more spin-offs and entrepreneurial ventures to emerge, leveraging the expertise and innovations developed within academic institutions. By streamlining IP processes, universities can catalyze the acceleration of startup creation and technology transfer.

Embracing ecosystem collaboration

Traditionally, companies have focused on their own value chains, but a new perspective emerged during the session – the importance of collaborating with different ecosystems. By forming partnerships and alliances across industries, organizations can create a more significant and sustainable impact. Sharing knowledge, resources, and best practices within a broader ecosystem leads to accelerated innovation and transformative solutions.

Engaging private investors

Private investors play a vital role in fueling innovation and driving the transition towards sustainable practices. We need to engage and encourage private investors to support cleantech innovations actively. By showcasing the potential for financial returns alongside positive environmental and social impacts, private investors can be motivated to contribute to the acceleration of sustainable technologies and business models.

Balancing innovation and biodiversity

While pursuing innovation, it’s crucial not to lose sight of the planet’s biodiversity and the holistic ecosystem overview. Achieving a balance between focused innovation and considering the broader environmental context is essential. By integrating biodiversity considerations into innovation strategies, we can ensure that our actions contribute to the overall well-being of the planet and its inhabitants.

Circular economy and energy efficiency

Circularity and energy efficiency are paramount in achieving sustainable development. Transitioning to renewable energy sources is vital, but it’s equally important to prioritize reducing energy consumption and promoting circular practices. Emphasizing reuse, recycling, and resource optimization can significantly reduce the need for energy and contribute to a more sustainable future.

The challenges and opportunities discussed – from bridging funding gaps to empowering student entrepreneurs, embracing ecosystem collaboration, engaging private investors, considering biodiversity, and promoting circularity and energy efficiency – demonstrate the collective commitment towards creating a sustainable and thriving world. It’s inspiring to see that if we address these challenges head-on, we can drive innovations faster and build a more resilient and circular economy that benefits both people and the planet.

The post Some key takeaways from The Arc 2023: The future of CleanTech appeared first on Verhaert Masters in Innovation.

The post Some key takeaways from The Arc 2023: The future of CleanTech appeared first on Verhaert Masters in Innovation.