The growing importance of integrated research networks and intelligent, adaptive
production machines and systems prompted us to establish VIMation, the "European
Virtual Institute for Human Machine Interaction and Models in Production". The institute
consists of universities, research institutes and companies from all over Europe. It is based
on the I*PROMS Network of Excellence funded under the EU 6th Framework.
VIMation concentrates specific knowledge in the field of Human Machine Interaction and Models

in Production and is supported by four specialised divisions called "VirtuEs" (Virtual Encounters):

• The VirtuE for "Interaction and Software Engineering" VISE led by Thomas Schlegel, 
  Universitaet Stuttgart
• The VirtuE for "Knowledge and Competence Management" VKCM led by Professor 
   Bernard Grabot, Ecole Nationale D´Ingénieurs de Tarbes
• The VirtuE for "Organisation Models and Systems" VOMS led by Professor Vinesh Raja, 
   University of Warwick
• The VirtuE for "Virtual Manufacturing" VVM led by Timo Määttä, VTT Research Centre of Finland

This structure enables the members to concentrate specific experience and allow for a diversification of fields of research to cover all future research priorities and to guarantee competitiveness in wolrd-class research and application.

• In addition to the VirtuEs the Industrial Forum shall overcome the gap between science and practical experience. Here entrepreneurs and manufacturers have the possibility to define their needs and problems raised from daily practice.

Above all, the strong common infrastructure facilitates exchange and collaboration in joint research and industrial projects. It enables dissemination and exploitation of knowledge by researcher and student exchange, common conferences and distributed lectures. Providing comprehensive information like interesting topics, useful tips, links and a digital library we generate a benefit for our members and everyone else interested in this field of research.