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Sustainable development in research and services Shaping the future together

The Lucerne School of Engineering and Architecture conducts applied research and development in the fields of construction and technology, thereby contributing to increased sustainability, technological progress, and the competitive edge of its cooperation partners in business and industry. Our contribution to sustainable development is based on five thematic clusters: data, energy, health, circularity, and building culture.

Selected research projects from the data cluster

Data is the essence of the digital world. It plays a central role in optimizing and automating planning and processes and is an indispensable basis for decision-making around sustainability and many other topics. We teach and research the use of state-of-the-art technologies for the collection, processing, and targeted use of data.

PAEON Virtual Hospital

The PAEON Virtual Hospital project is dedicated to the development of mathematical models to support reproductive medicine. It models endocrine diseases that affect fertility in order to calculate individual treatment strategies. The aim is to provide personalized therapy for diseases such as PCOS and endometriosis.

Snow rope

The Innosuisse project “Ground-independent snowmaking system” focuses on the development of a cable-based snowmaking system (photo: Diavolezza test facility) able to cover large areas of glaciers and permafrost with snow to reduce melting. The main markets are glacier protection projects and ski resorts that need to cover permafrost zones with snow to ensure skiing operations.

More about research and development in the field of data

Selected research projects from the Energy cluster

Shaping the transition to efficient, resilient, and decarbonized energy systems is a core element of our activities. We develop solutions for buildings, sites, and industry based on innovative materials, components, and complete systems that enable a path to net zero.

Speicher für die Industrie

DeCarbCH

The DeCarbCH project addresses the enormous challenge of decarbonizing heating and cooling in Switzerland, paving the way for negative CO2 emissions. The aim of the project is to facilitate, accelerate, and reduce the risks associated with the introduction of renewable energies in the residential sector.

Labor mit Algenreaktoren

Microalgae for NET

There is no better way to produce biomass as energy- and volume-efficiently than by producing of microalgae in warm water. The CC TEVT project team led by Prof Dr Mirko Kleingries has been investigating the process of microalgae cultivation in photobioreactors for a year and a half now.

More about research and development in the field of energy

Selected research projects from the health cluster

Health and well-being are key concerns in the fields of technology and architecture. We contribute to innovative healthcare and support preventive healthcare by developing technologies and designing indoor and outdoor spaces with a high quality of stay, thereby contributing in particular to the achievement of SDG 3.

Virtual walking

The Virtual Walking research project uses digital twins to alleviate neuropathic pain in paraplegic patients. Seing their avatar walking virtually helps their brain to relearn the contradiction between visual perception and the lack of sensation in the legs.

Safe and efficient vitreous removal during retinal surgery

In this research project, researchers are developing methods for safe and efficient vitreous removal during retinal surgery. The efficiency of this procedure depends on the cutting properties of the cutter and the fluidics in the vitreous cavity.

Kühlendes Licht im Raum

Sweet Lantern CCIA

Together with the University of Geneva, the University of Applied Sciences Western Switzerland, the Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Empa, and partners from the field, Sweet Lantern CCIA is researching solutions for the energy transition. The aim is to improve the indoor climate in summer using low-tech architectural and design solutions.

More about research and development in the field of health 

Selected research projects from the circularity cluster

Two researchers investigating recycling material

The circular economy and resource efficiency are essential for a sustainable future. Products and solutions are developed with a view to saving materials , longevity, partial or full reusability, and biodegradability.

circularWOOD

The circularWOOD research project addresses relevant issues concerning the application of circular principles to modern timber construction. The method involves a literature review and empirical research focusing on stakeholder analysis, implementation practices in case studies, and expert interviews. (Photo by Pirmin Jung Schweiz AG)

Circular economy strategy for the Lufthansa Group / SWISS

How can the aviation industry contribute to greater sustainability? Every flight involves the use of a large number of disposable items on board. Material flows and the question of how to evaluate such circular economy efforts are part of the project.

Cascade model for circular building services engineering

The project uses practical examples to show how building technology can contribute to achieving the net-zero target. The research results are being tested in a real-world project to verify the ecological balance, costs, and applicability.

More about research and development in the field of circularity

Selected research projects from the building culture cluster

Building culture and building renovation: Climate change and demographic shifts are increasing the need for adaptation in buildings, settlements, and landscapes. The Lucerne School of Engineering and Architecture develops and teaches building culture strategies and concepts as well as structural solutions for a sustainable and high-quality living environment.

Think Earth

The flagship project “Think Earth” explores the process of climate-neutral construction using wood and clay. The focus is on materials, construction processes, architectural design issues, and the framework conditions for regenerative construction. One area of focus is the development of wood-clay hybrid components, which are being tested for their use in practice.

Sustainable construction sites in cities

The aim of the planned preliminary project is to investigate the conditions necessary for promoting the electrification of urban construction sites through B2B sharing by preparing and supporting an e-construction site in Zurich.

ITC Neighborhood Climate

How does local heat accumulation affect our quality of life and property values? What are the economic and social consequences? These are some of the questions being investigated by the ITC – Neighborhood Climate: Socioeconomic Implications of Heat Islands project.

More on research and development in the field of building culture