Technical Conference to continue after one-year break
The 18th VEM Technical Conference took place in Wernigerode again this year, on the 14th and 15th of September. The previous year, the event unfortunately had to be cancelled due to the pandemic. So we were all the more pleased about the high level of interest in the full range of exciting presentations and networking opportunities. As in previous years, the HKK Hotel in Wernigerode served as the venue. The location of the city and its charming Old Town with the castle in the background had already proved popular with speakers and participants in previous years. Last but not least, as the headquarters of VEM Low Voltage, Wernigerode offers proximity to VEM, and numerous guests took advantage of the factory tour at the end of the event.
Influence of the pandemic felt nonetheless
All the same, the influence of the pandemic was still noticeable this year. In order to ensure a basic level of safety, the '3G' rule applied. This meant that participants were only granted access to the auditorium if they could show proof that they had been vaccinated, tested, or had recovered from the virus. This measure was accepted by all participants and some even praised it. The hygiene concept of the HKK Hotel Wernigerode was also implemented, with masks being worn, and social distancing observed where possible.
Varied programme and positive feedback
The two days were filled with 15 lectures around the central theme of 'Electric Motors and Drive Systems - what route is drive technology taking'. Both theory and practice were examined by speakers from the sectors of research and development as well as private enterprise. In addition to presentations on topics such as
- interpolation methods for loss and efficiency factors,
- cost-effective electrical machines in the high and low voltage range, and
- customised built-in motors for machine and plant construction based on synchronous reluctance segment motors,
VEM itself also contributed content to the Technical Conference with two presentations. In one of these, the implementation of the Industry 4.0 strategy at VEM was examined in more detail on the basis of a pilot project with the company Tectrion. Another presentation was dedicated to the new high-voltage motor series, which has many advantages due to its modularity.
Naturally, we also want to respond to participants' wishes as best we can in future. So we're very keen to hear feedback and hope that a majority will participate in our survey. We've already received a lot of positive general feedback. It was described as very refreshing that presentations could once again be held in front of a live audience and that face-to-face discussions could be held. The somewhat difficult logistics, largely due to the pandemic, were also emphasised, but this did not diminish the value of the event and the Technical Conference was still considered a success.
We are delighted to have already received the first suggestions for next year's topics. This is one indication of how significant the Technical Conference has become over the past 20 years. During this time we've welcomed over 3,700 participants from more than 20 countries and over 170 speakers.
Two anniversaries coincide
The Technical Conference was cancelled only twice, in 2018 and 2020. The year 2021 is significant for VEM not only because the Technical Conference will resume its annual cycle in future, but also because it celebrated its 20th anniversary, having been held for the first time in 2001. Moreover, the trademark association VEM e.V., which is responsible in particular for the use of the VEM trademark, can now look back on 60 years of existence. Glasses were also raised to this at the shared dinner on the first day of the event. Plenty of catering was provided.
We're looking forward to 'business as usual' and hope to welcome a large audience to our Technical Conference again next year. As soon as we've set a date, we will of course announce it.