To strengthen security in its digital twin marketplace, Siemens’ Cre8Ventures has formed a strategic alliance with embedded blockchain platform Minima. Siemens’ goal for safe digital infrastructure in sectors like robotics, automotive, energy, and healthcare is in line with Minima’s technology, which makes full-node blockchain capabilities possible on Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
Cre8Ventures, the Electronic Design Automation division of Siemens, launched its Digital Twin Marketplace to serve as a testing ground for emerging technologies. While not explicitly labeled as an incubation program, the initiative allows major corporations to validate new innovations with minimal risk. As part of the partnership, Siemens will not only assist Minima in refining its solutions but will also support its marketing efforts.
Minima’s Blockchain Use Case for EV Charging
One of Minima’s most prominent applications is in the electric vehicle (EV) charging sector. Through its decentralized physical infrastructure network (DePIN), Minima aims to transform private EV charging points into shared resources. Dubbed “the Airbnb for EV charging,” the system enables homeowners to host wallbox charging stations, accessible to EV drivers via Minima tokens. Users can locate available charging points through a mobile app, enhancing convenience and accessibility.
Siemens’ Blockchain Focus
Security is the main reason Siemens is interested in blockchain technology. In order to prevent manipulation, the company is investigating how Minima can guarantee data authenticity and cryptographic proof procedures. Potential uses include protecting energy grid components or securing communication between devices, such as between EVs and charging stations. Furthermore, Siemens believes that blockchain can be used to ensure the integrity of device parts, boosting confidence in industrial applications.
Siemens is no stranger to blockchain innovation. As a former member of the now-defunct Trusted IoT Alliance, the company has previously explored securing IoT infrastructure with blockchain. Siemens has also experimented with blockchain-based peer-to-peer energy trading. However, commercial success in IoT blockchain applications has remained elusive.
Through its collaboration with Minima, Siemens aims to push the boundaries of blockchain’s role in industrial security, leveraging decentralized solutions to fortify the next generation of connected devices.
