Wilhelm Hannibal

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wilhelm Hannibal is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at South Westphalia University of Applied Sciences in Iserlohn, Germany. He has been teaching at the university since 1995, specializing in Construction Theory and CAD education. As Program Spokesperson for Automotive studies, he plays a key role in shaping the curriculum and research direction. Prof. Hannibal also leads the "Hydrogen Technologies" working group and serves as scientific director for the annual MTZ conference on "Charge Exchange and Emissions."

His educational background includes:

• Studied Mechanical Engineering at University of Hannover (1980-1986)
• Spent a semester at University of Waterloo, Canada (1984)
• PhD from University of Stuttgart on valve controls for combustion engines

Prof. Hannibal's research interests focus on the future of mobility, with particular emphasis on hydrogen technologies and sustainable solutions for transportation. His work spans both theoretical and practical applications, from virtual reality in engineering education to tribology investigations on engine components. His current research explores how hydrogen and e-fuels can help reduce resource consumption and address climate challenges in the automotive sector. He has established specialized laboratories including the Laboratory for Construction and CAE Applications, Laboratory for Automotive Construction/Car Body, Laboratory for CAD Techniques, and Laboratory for Tribology.

Prof. Hannibal has been instrumental in establishing the XR Laboratory with a CAVE (Cave Automatic Virtual Environment) system at the university, exploring innovative educational applications of virtual reality. His recent publications and lectures consistently address the transition toward sustainable mobility solutions, with a particular focus on hydrogen technologies and their implementation challenges.

His scientific contributions include:

• Leadership in the "Hydrogen Technologies" working group since 2022
• Scientific direction of the annual MTZ conference on "Charge Exchange and Emissions"
• Development of the XR Laboratory with CAVE technology
• Establishment of specialized laboratories for automotive engineering research

Prof. Hannibal maintains strong industry connections through his consulting company enTec CONSULTING GmbH, which he co-founded in 2003, facilitating collaboration between academia and industry. He has supervised numerous student theses on automotive engineering topics and supports entrepreneurial initiatives among students, such as helping Doris Korthaus establish her company in dirt pump technology.

His laboratory facilities support various research activities including 3D scanning, CAD analyses, reverse engineering projects, tribology tests, and consulting services in hydrogen technologies, combustion engines, and electromobility for public transport.