How to perform very many virtual tests in a short time

During the forming process, sheet metal materials are often stressed to their limits. Computer simulations are used to test how far it is possible to go in production. However, the simulation is only ever as exact as the data on which it is based. Fraunhofer scientists have now developed a virtual test laboratory that allows Read more about How to perform very many virtual tests in a short time[…]

Methane can be measured anywhere and anytime

Heatwaves in the Arctic, longer periods of vegetation in Europe, severe floods in West Africa – starting in 2021, scientists want to explore the emissions of the greenhouse gas methane with the German-French satellite MERLIN. This is made possible by a new robust laser system of the Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT in Aachen, Read more about Methane can be measured anywhere and anytime[…]

New laser-based glass forming technology

A new Fraunhofer technique makes it possible to bend sheet glass into complex or unconventional shapes with the help of laser beams. This opens up a whole new range of potential products for architects and designers. The researchers are taking advantage of a particular attribute glass has of becoming viscous and therefore malleable when exposed Read more about New laser-based glass forming technology[…]

Industrial Data Space connects industries

Sharing and utilizing data together with business partners – a delicate subject for companies that fear losing control over their own data. This may be about to change, however; with the Industrial Data Space, companies can share data while stipulating who is allowed to use it and for what purpose. At the Hannover Messe, the Read more about Industrial Data Space connects industries[…]

5G – Driving Industrie 4.0

With data transfer rates of 10 gigabits a second and a latency of just one millisecond, the 5G wireless communications standard is creating the conditions required for the tactile internet. This in turn will open up the door to new industry, transportation and medical applications. Fraunhofer researchers work on the underlying technology and have developed Read more about 5G – Driving Industrie 4.0[…]

A new software that makes the production of non-woven products much more efficient and flexible

Non-woven fabrics are indispensable to everyday life. A Fraunhofer Institute has developed software that makes the production of non-woven products much more efficient and flexible. With the tool FIDYST, it has been possible for the first time to simulate the movement of fibers in turbulent air currents. A real innovation – and the breakthrough in Read more about A new software that makes the production of non-woven products much more efficient and flexible[…]

Expanding sensor technology for the first time to the entire vehicle interior

When it comes to parking assistance or detecting pedestrians, modern cars can analyze their environment with high precision. But so far, what’s going on inside the car is less analyzed. Not so with a new type of system: it recognizes the number and size of the people inside the car and where they are focusing Read more about Expanding sensor technology for the first time to the entire vehicle interior[…]

Rapid and energy-efficient production of lightweight components

When consolidating carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP), individual layers of fibers and plastic connect to each other under pressure and high temperatures to form a homogeneous plate. Fraunhofer researchers have developed a method which is fast and energy efficient, and which is also suitable for smaller quantities as well as high-temperature plastics: CFRP is directly Read more about Rapid and energy-efficient production of lightweight components[…]

FitnessSHIRT, a smart wearable for reliable performance diagnostics

The Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits IIS is introducing the FitnessSHIRT during the MEDICA trade fair. This smart apparel can continuously monitor various body signals in mobile application scenarios. The shirt can be worn during daily routine, is washable and features integrated sensors that measure the pulse and respiratory rate simultaneously. While jogging in the Read more about FitnessSHIRT, a smart wearable for reliable performance diagnostics[…]