The continuous optimisation of manufacturing processes for mechanical components is one of the key success factors of the Swiss watchmaking industry. While traditional machining and stamping processes will continue to play an important role, emerging technologies such as laser machining, 3D printing and plasma etching are pushing the current limits to new heights of quality and performance.
In order to capture this outstanding potential, Richemont and EPFL are creating an academic chair in “Multi-scale Manufacturing Technologies”. Richemont, a key Swiss player in the watchmaking and jewellery industry, will sponsor the activities of the future professor in EPFL’s Institute of Microengineering. The recruitment process has already started.
To stimulate innovation Microengineering, and the watchmaking sector in particular, are essential components of the industrial landscape in Western Switzerland. EPFL’s stake in the Microcity Campus in Neuchâtel is a clear sign of its ambition to support innovation and academic research in this field. “The creation of this new chair with Richemont is totally in line with our overall strategy for the region. This collaboration will allow us to develop new technologies and stimulate innovation for a key economic sector in Neuchâtel.” EPFL’s President, Patrick Aebischer.
High quality parts Multi-scale manufacturing combines disruptive technologies to produce high quality parts on any scale and at any level of precision. The integration of these new technologies in production will reinforce Switzerland’s leadership position in high-precision industries and high-end watchmaking. In particular, it will improve the performance and quality of watches, allowing for the use of new materials and enabling the fabrication of the most complex components.
Compagnie Financière Richemont SA 50, chemin de la Chênaie, CP30 1293 Bellevue, Geneva, Switzerland Tel. +41 (0)22 721 3500 Fax. +41 (0)22 721 3550 [email protected] www.richemont.com
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