Gripping insights at the “Open Hub Days” and new podcast
The AI application hub for plastic packaging, in which IKV heads one of the two innovation labs, was able to present the first important project results at the recent Open Hub Days in Aachen and Dresden.
On 7 November 2024, IKV hosted the “Open Hub Day” in Aachen. The focus was on the presentation of the KIOptiPack innovation lab and topics relating to AI in plastics processing as well as material and product development. In addition to presentations on AI-supported approaches in compounding, extrusion and injection moulding, the topic of consumer perception of recycled packaging was also addressed. Jan Körkemeier from WZL-IQS explained how different quality and sustainability criteria are perceived, and Ralf Wiechmann from R-Cycle illustrated how a digital product passport contributes to better evaluation and traceability of plastic packaging. The practical implementation of “Design for Recycling” could be experienced during the subsequent workshop tour – particularly impressive: the demonstrator lid made from PCR material.
© IKVIn Dresden, the Fraunhofer IVV provided an overview of technologies relating to plastic recyclates. During a tour of the technical center, the visitors experienced how films with recycled content are processed and what sensory challenges arise when using recycled materials. AI-supported methods for material prediction, optimisation of packaging processes and innovative business models were presented at five stations.
Podcast “lightly packaged” launched
In addition to the Open Hub Days, the Application Hub also uses digital channels to communicate its findings to the public. The podcast “leicht verpackt” is now available, which focuses on the topic of recycling plastic packaging with AI. The topics covered in nine episodes range from sustainable packaging design and the recycling process to the potential use of AI in sorting plants. The podcast, hosted by Tami Kelling, aims to make the phases of the recycling process understandable – accompanied by the stories of the “talking yogurt cup Yogi”. The first episode is already available on Spotify, Apple Music and other platforms, and a contribution from IKV, recorded with Dr. Malte Schön, will also be available in mid-December.