What comes tomorrow? − A foresight into the world of products

The textbook “100 Produkte der Zukunft. Wegweisende Ideen, die unser Leben verändern werden” (“100 products of the future. Groundbreaking ideas which will change our life”) by nobel laureate Theodor W. Hänsch gives an insight into the world of products of the 21th century and presents the latest developments of ThinkTanks. One of the concepts presented is wireless communication via light emitting diodes (LEDs), developed by Harald Haas, Professor of Electrical Engineering at Jacobs University.

[ Sep 07, 2007]  German scientists are at the forefront of many areas of research worldwide. But what spectacular inventions will arise from the variety of ideas the experts are working on? What new developments can we expect in the future from areas such as health, traffic control, artificial intelligence, basic energy supply, or information technology? The newly released book is a mix of scientific facts and Science-Fiction: Based on academic results and visions a jury of 15 top-class scientists chose the 100 most exciting and innovative developments of the future. Presenting the new ideas with understandable accompanying texts and illustrations, the book delivers background information about the trends, scientists and applications.

One of these innovations is the work of Professor Haas and his team who developed a new technology for high speed wireless data communication in cooperation with MobilTec GmbH. With the help of newhigh intensity light emitting diodes which are normally used for pocket lights, skylights or for the new generation of energy saving light bulbs, the researchers managed to transfer high volumes of data comparable to the sizes of modern DSL-accesses. The new light-type is applicable in planes, trains, hospitals and underground garages; places, where other technologies like WLAN and UTMS malfunction, or where electromagnetic radiation is of concern. The new technology is capable of satisfying two fundamental future needs at the same time: (1) basic illumination with very low energy consumption, and (2) high speed Internet access. This particular combination will trigger numerous new products and applications some of which are described in the book

The book is not only addressed at scientists but also at all the thinkers and curious people among us, who like to look in the future and get an idea as to which products will change the world within the next centuries. Each chapter is opened by a renowned representative of the sector like Sven-David Müller-Nothmann, Jutta Kleinschmidt or Jürgen Trittin. The book, published by econ in cooperation with the Federal Ministry of education and research, is now available.