AI as a Transformer – DFKI at the 2026 Hannover Messe

The DFKI will present modern AI approaches applicable across various domains. Intelligent robotic systems support resource extraction on the Moon and simulate weightlessness, proving equally effective in logistics for industrial goods. As assistance and decision-support tools, AI technologies demonstrate their utility in diverse fields: from medical diagnostics and therapies to business decision-making and legal contract review. Additionally, AI systems model and optimize complex processes – such as those in medium-sized manufacturing firms or hospital emergency rooms – contributing significantly to increased efficiency, transparency, and quality assurance.

Trusted AI stands for transparent, secure, and compliant AI systems throughout the entire lifecycle – from data collection to practical application. Its goal is to build trust as the foundation for creating economic value and to actively help shape European standards. Trusted AI ensures that AI systems can be verified, robust, and securely certified – for autonomous systems, critical infrastructure, and industrial processes. DFKI develops methods and standards that combine security, explainability, and sovereignty.

With Health AI, DFKI integrates cutting-edge AI methods into medical practice – from diagnostics and personalized therapy to intelligent assistance systems in care and rehabilitation. DFKI combines image processing, signal analysis, and clinical expertise – for more efficient patient care and life-saving pattern recognition.

In space exploration, AI is reaching its full potential: robotics, real-time data analysis, and mission control. Space AI opens new horizons for autonomous systems, satellite data utilization, and resilient infrastructure. These advancements not only strengthen Europe’s role in space exploration but also boost industry, environmental monitoring, and supply systems on Earth. DFKI solutions for Earth observation and extraterrestrial exploration can be easily adapted to address challenges on Earth.

In the stage program at Hannover Messe, DFKI researchers will discuss key future topics such as AI gigafactories and the path to technological sovereignty, agentic AI and resilient factories, trustworthy AI as the foundation of Europe’s digital sovereignty, mobile robots for extraterrestrial use, physical AI in rehabilitation, and industrial AI in a transnational context.