Innovation is one of the cornerstones of Schaeffler and is fundamental to achieving profitable and forward-looking growth in addition to being an integral part of Schaeffler’s “DNA”. Ever since the company was founded, outside-the-box thinking has been one of the most important factors in its success and requires not only a high level of technological expertise but also knowledge of possible new markets and fields of application. In a world of increasing complexity, two things are there-fore needed: A strong network of partners from the areas of industry and research, and a dynamic exchange across organizational boundaries.
Schaeffler’s new “Open Inspiration” event in Herzogenaurach, at which external companies, research institutions, and universities present their latest developments and research activities, was conceived for exactly this purpose. The aim is to allow an active exchange of ideas and information with Schaeffler employees. Close collaboration has already been established with the majority of the companies and institutions that are taking part.
“I am impressed at how close the contact is between Schaeffler and its external partners. This highlights the great importance given to our culture of innovation,” said Prof. Dr.-Ing. Peter Gutzmer, Deputy CEO and Chief Technology Officer at Schaeffler.
Schaeffler employees and the exhibitors exchanged ideas and information in five topic areas (mobility, digitalization, production and process technology, energy and environment, and new materials and lightweight construction) that also support the focal areas of our “Mobility for tomorrow” strategy concept. Developments are presented here that are both close to and remote from the areas in which Schaeffler operates. Dr. Heinrich Schäperkötter, Vice President of Innovation Strategy, explained: “Our aim in creating the new “Open Inspiration” format was to bring additional external impetus into the company. The objective of this event is to exchange challenges and ideas, to inspire one another, and to collectively broaden our horizons.”
In the run-up to the event, Schaeffler’s employees were asked to suggest potential exhibitors. More than 50 companies, research institutions, and universities presented their innovative ideas.
The new event format was very well received by employees: “I was very pleased with the variety of exhibitors who took part. The fact that so many different fields of application were presented meant that there was an opportunity to learn something new, and I was able to pick up many new and inspiring ideas”, said Schaeffler employee Jens Langanki, a design engineer from Bühl.
