The strategic target of this project includes the development of innovative center of excellence for research, development and technology transfer and training oriented to the future knowledge based economy. Particularly, the focus is set on approaches and methods for effective use of virtual engineering and micro / nanotechnology for accelerated development of innovative technologies and systems for design and evaluation of MEMS, and systems for energy recuperation, in order to increase the competitiveness of TU and Bulgarian SMEs. This target is determined by the fact that the development of new products is concentrated mainly in developed countries, and Eastern Europe has a relatively small share in the development of innovative products. Thus, Eastern Europe companies’ competitiveness could be achieved by using the newest and most effective methods and approaches to create innovative products and training of highly competent professionals.

Scientific goals of the innovation center of excellence for the development and transfer of technologies that will achieve the strategic target of the proposed project include:

• Increasing the qualification level of scientists and professors from the center in the field of virtual engineering and micro-fabrication;
• Infrastructure development of software, hardware and special tools and specialized equipment for micro / nano machining with laser or other electronic technology;
• Method development for simulation of complex MEMS objects and systems behavior;
• Development of step based approach and methodology for design of MEMS technology through virtual engineering and physical prototyping;
• Verification of methods and approaches based on specific test examples;
• Methodology development for design and functional cost analysis of mechanical systems for energy recuperation through virtual engineering technology;
• Process evaluation based on the performance of virtual prototype for energy storage mechanical system parameters compared with competing systems;
• Creating conditions for effective training of students, postgraduates and young scientists in the field of virtual engineering and micro manufacturing and energy effectiveness. Project focus is to create professionals for the future knowledge-based economy that can meet the challenges of global competition and are prepared to take a leading role in the development of competitive products through the interdisciplinary approach of virtual engineering, allowing shorter time to develop innovative projects and systems.