Special Topic: A culture of expertise: Research driven by passion

In the future, the combination of robotics and image processing could also become an important component of networked production in the context of Industry 4.0. Currently, the idea of ​​using the 3D scanner in manufacturing plants in different industries is also being investigated, in view of rejecting defective products long before the packaging process begins and to therefore be able to further streamline production. “My vision is autonomous production whereby the scanner can provide feedback to previous stages of production in situations such as these, in view of automatically correcting the problem. For instance, in the case of biscuits that are too dark, information would be shared that the oven isn’t properly set. The production manager could monitor these operations on his or her smartphone from anywhere in the world, without having to intervene,” explains Nasraoui. “The time gained can be used for more skilled activities.”

The fact that progress – in spite of people’s fears – cannot be stopped, is something that Nasraoui sees when he visits his home country Algeria. “The tribal lifestyle which was very common in the Algerian Aurès mountains no longer exists. The people there have joined the ranks of modern life. Most of them now live in towns, with mobile phones and all the commodities you would expect. Of course, however, with change there is always something that is left behind. But we have to look ahead: what does a development bring, how can it be used to benefit people while avoiding abuse?” Nasraoui now gives lectures at international conferences and at universities in Algeria. And, together with several other of his countrymen and women working in key positions worldwide, he is also committed to supporting his country of birth. “I came from a traditional society in one of the most remote regions of the world and would not have found my way without the support of other people. This is something I wish to give back.”

He has never once regretted his decision to work with Schubert. Today, the large company with more than 1,000 employees gives him the freedom needed for meaningful research and development work, as well as a healthy environment and colleagues who get along well with each other. “The confidence that management places in us is enormous. At Schubert, I enjoy freedom and leeway as seldom experienced in other working environments. Every morning when I drive to the company premises and envision Schubert’s remarkable development, I feel a great joy to be part of this success. Driven individuals can implement groundbreaking innovations, without pressure from above. And I am very grateful to have the opportunity to work this way.”