Regional development of lightweight innovations and comptences - an initiative of SIO LIGHTer, stage 1

Purpose and goal

The long-term goal is to develop Swedish industry by supporting regional initiatives. The regions have a key role in the innovation system. The project has created regional initiatives with focus on lightweight that is both linked to the particular region´s long-term strategic goal, and included as a part of the strategic research and innovation agenda for lightweight, SIP Lättvikt. We want to create efficiency in the innovation system. We have developed a common approach so that regional lightweight initiatives can develop, prosper and create growth in dialogue with SIP Lättvikt.

Results and expected effects

In Västra Götaland we have established a node with focus on SMEs in automotive, aerospace and offshore industry. In Halland an ongoing prestudy includes innovation in fixtures as well as biobased materials (forest) and traditional composite materials. Region Jönköping has decided to start a node focused on wood and metal. Östergötland is interested in a node around the composite and aluminum manufacturing for aerospace and engineering industry. In Blekinge the interest is production of composite and metal. Two regional lightweight courses have been offered.

Approach and implementation

The starting point has been to develop industrial companies with regional roots that have national significance within lightweight. The work began with a survey on the company structures of Västra Götaland and Region Jönköping. Later on a survey was also made in Region Halland. The goal was to identify companies, industries, investments, testing and demonstrator facilities that are region-specific. The companies and organisations of the region have been connected to the national activities in LIGHTer. It has been done by training courses and workshops adapted to the region.