Move your head, hum, or tap your foot—these simple actions enable users to access digital devices and the internet without barriers. Dr. Raphael Menges, Ramin Hedeshy and Lukas Schmelzeisen researched this idea at the “Analytic Computing” department at the Institute for Artificial Intelligence. Together with business economist Florian Lerch from the Technical University of Munich, they won EXIST research transfer funding for their business idea in 2021. After Semanux became a GmbH in 2023, the company is now advancing to the next stage by joining the alfa group of companies based in Karlsruhe, which operates in the education and technology industries.
Controlling a computer without using hands
Accessible technology remains the company's goal. By merging with the group of companies, the team aims to accelerate its innovations. This was because the market for Semanux products was limited. “We want to further develop our technology and integrate it into the alfa Group's existing video communication products,” says Raphael Menges. For example, integrating awareness of emotions, gestures, and facial expressions into the video conferencing system could enhance collaboration.
Prof. Steffen Staab, Managing Director at the Institute for Artificial Intelligence, recognizes the company's potential to enable barrier-free access to digital devices and the internet—even for those without permanent restrictions: “Whether we’re carrying something, navigating traffic, or doing household tasks, our physical mobility is often limited. Digital accessibility products are essential for anyone who is permanently or temporarily unable to use a keyboard.
From university to the business world
The Institute of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Science (ENI) also supported the founders. Prof. Alexander Brem, now Vice-Rector for Transfer and International Affairs, mentored the team in refining their idea for the EXIST funding application. He congratulates the team on their success, stating: “The development of Semanux in research and its strong early years in business demonstrate that Semanux is effective—showcasing the University of Stuttgart’s ability to create real-world solutions.”
Transfer at the University of Stuttgart
The TRACES Transfer Center is the University of Stuttgart's central point of contact for transfer and provides students and employees with comprehensive support for their transfer projects. It initiates and promotes partnerships and cooperation between the university and external stakeholders (companies, society, politics/administration) as well as co-creative research and knowledge transfer.
Together with the ENI, Department 1 - Research and Transfer and the Technologie-Transfer-Initiative GmbH (TTI), TRACES supports start-up projects by students and employees. The ENI offers a wide range of courses, while TRACES and the TTI support individuals and teams with start-up coaching or applications for funding programs, for example, and Division 1 advises on issues such as property rights.