The Collaborative Research Centre 614 „Self-optimizing concepts and structures in mechanical engineering” (CRC 614) is now seven years old and in the fourth year of the second period. It is based on an outstanding capability of the University of Paderborn: the symbiosis of computer sciences, engineering disciplines and mathematics. This capability results in a distinct competence in mechatronics, which combined with optimization methods is the foundation of CRC 614.  Research Program ...