The canton of Schwyz has taken a significant step toward bolstering its technological capabilities with the opening of a recent research center operated by the Centre Suisse d’Electronique et de Microtechnique (CSEM) in Seewen. This development provides the region with streamlined access to cutting-edge research and key technologies, particularly in the fields of digitalization, artificial intelligence, and robotics.
The establishment of the CSEM center is being hailed as a milestone in the economic history of Schwyz, offering local companies direct access to crucial technological advancements. The new facility is deeply integrated with other CSEM locations across Switzerland, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing. This initiative directly supports the canton’s “Economy and Housing” strategy, established through 2035, which called for the realization of a research and development center within Schwyz.
Strategic Investment in Future Technologies
The Canton of Schwyz has committed 11.3 million Swiss francs over eight years to support the construction of the research center, with the municipality of Schwyz contributing an additional 100,000 francs annually until 2033. These investments are viewed as crucial for maintaining the canton’s economic attractiveness despite the implementation of the OECD minimum tax, aiming to foster high-quality jobs and innovative businesses. The official opening of the center was met with strong interest from both political and business leaders.
Petra Steimen-Rickenbacher, a member of the cantonal government and head of the Department of Economic Affairs, emphasized the importance of bridging the gap between research and industry. “Switzerland consistently ranks highly in innovation, but research can only fully realize its potential when it addresses concrete needs of the economy,” she stated. She believes the new center will facilitate this knowledge transfer, making Schwyz even more appealing to businesses and SMEs.
Collaboration and Applied Research
The CSEM Schwyz is already engaged in a diverse range of research projects, often in close collaboration with local companies. One example highlighted during a tour of the facility involves the development of a parquet floor sanding machine that uses sensors to measure wood and optimize the sanding process. Other projects include a high-precision blood pressure monitor integrated into a watch, a system for creating human skin, robots for quality control of microscrews, and sensors for medical measurements that directly record data into patient files. Research similarly extends to innovative solar technology, personalized medicine, components for space travel, and self-powered timepieces.
Victorinox, the renowned Swiss knife manufacturer, is leveraging robotics and automation in its production processes, with 900 machines now monitored by AI-based systems to ensure quality and minimize downtime, as explained by Kilian Eyholzer, Victorinox’s Technology Leader.
The center, which opened in January, is currently located in repurposed offices of Celfa Folex AG on Bahnhofstrasse. A future relocation to the Zeughaus area in Seewen is planned. Currently staffed by five engineers, the CSEM Schwyz anticipates expanding its team to twelve researchers as projects grow.
CSEM: A National Network of Innovation
Founded in 1984 as a private research and development center in Neuchâtel, CSEM has expanded to include locations in Basel, Bern, Zürich, Delémont, Alpnach, Landquart, and now Schwyz. The organization boasts a track record of successful collaborations with thousands of companies throughout Switzerland and has contributed to the creation of over 50 startups. CSEM currently employs 650 people and serves approximately 230 industrial and commercial clients annually, holding around 180 patent families. Learn more about CSEM’s work.
Symbolic opening of the new CSEM center: Urs Durrer (from left), Peppino Beffa, Alexandre Pauchard, Petra Steimen-Rickenbacher, Andreas Rickenbacher and Vincent Revol. Image: Josias Clavadetscher
The establishment of the CSEM center in Schwyz represents a strategic investment in the future of the region, positioning it as a hub for technological innovation and economic growth. As the center expands and its research projects mature, it is expected to play an increasingly vital role in driving advancements across a range of industries. The ongoing development of the Zeughaus area will further solidify Schwyz’s commitment to fostering a thriving ecosystem for technology and research.
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