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June 3
- Successful Development of Innovative and Versatile Evaluation Platform for Spatial Light Modulators
➀ Fraunhofer IPMS introduced upgraded evaluation kits for spatial light modulators (SLMs), now supporting both tilting and sinking mirror actuators, enhancing versatility in high-precision light pattern generation for lithography, medical tech, and quantum computing;
➁ The kits operate across UV to near-infrared spectra, feature kHz-level modulation frequencies, and aim to expand to deep-UV wavelengths, with nanoscale calibration enabling ultra-precise analog control;
➂ Applications span microscopy, semiconductor lithography, 3D holography, adaptive optics in astronomy, and quantum computing, showcased at Laser World of Photonics 2025.
- Successful Development of Innovative and Versatile Evaluation Platform for Spatial Light Modulators
➀ Fraunhofer IPMS introduces advanced evaluation kits for spatial light modulators (SLMs) with tilting/piston mirrors, enabling pixel-level light manipulation for lithography, medical tech, and quantum computing;
➁ The kits support UV to near-infrared spectral ranges, high modulation frequencies (kHz), and nano-scale calibration, with plans to expand to deep UV for higher precision;
➂ Applications include semiconductor microlithography, 3D holography displays, adaptive optics, and quantum computing, showcased at Laser World of Photonics 2025.
- More efficient circuits for AI and quantum computers
➀ Fraunhofer IOF researchers advanced thin-film lithium niobate (LNOI) technology to develop photonic integrated circuits (PICs), enabling energy-efficient, high-speed optical systems for quantum computing and AI;
➁ The PhoQuant project aims to build a photonic quantum computer using LNOI-based optical components, eliminating the need for complex cooling and enabling scalable quantum internet applications;
➂ LNOI circuits achieve 100 GHz processing speeds with low-voltage control, offering high bandwidth and multi-wavelength signal processing for AI tasks, showcased at World of Quantum 2025.
- More Efficient Circuits for AI and Quantum Computers
➀ Fraunhofer IOF researchers developed thin-film lithium niobate (LNOI) technology to create integrated photonic circuits, enabling energy-efficient and scalable photonic systems for high-speed applications;
➁ The LNOI-based technology is applied in the PhoQuant project to build photonic quantum computers requiring no cryogenic cooling, using quantum light sources and processing in integrated circuits;
➂ The circuits also enhance AI and data processing capabilities, operating at 100 GHz speeds with low voltage, offering higher bandwidth and energy efficiency compared to conventional electronics.
- Semi-automated manufacturing process for cost-efficient quantum cascade laser modules
➀ Fraunhofer IAF developed a semi-automated process for manufacturing MOEMS-EC-QCL modules, reducing costs and accelerating production through collaboration with Fraunhofer IPMS;
➁ The technology enables rapid, broad spectral tuning (4-11 µm) for real-time spectroscopy in pharmaceuticals, security, and semiconductor industries;
➂ A multi-core system with four QCL modules will be showcased at Laser World of Photonics 2025, supported by the BMFTR-funded AIRLAMet project for inline semiconductor metrology.
- Semi-Automated Manufacturing Process for Cost-Efficient Quantum Cascade Laser Modules
➀ Fraunhofer IAF developed a semi-automated manufacturing method for MOEMS-EC-QCLs, reducing production costs and enabling scalable multi-core systems for high-speed spectral measurements;
➁ The technology's broad spectral tunability (4–11 µm) and high brilliance support real-time spectroscopy in industries like semiconductor metrology, pharmaceuticals, and security;
➂ A demonstration multi-core system will be showcased at Laser World of Photonics 2025, highlighting advancements from the BMFTR-funded AIRLAMet project.
June 2
- TH Deggendorf Supports Automotive Degree Program in Tunisia
➀ A new automotive-focused degree program was launched at École Nationale d'Ingénieurs de Sousses (ENISo) in Tunisia, supported by DRÄXLMAIER Group, TH Deggendorf (THD), and GIZ;
➁ The program aligns with international technological education standards, preparing engineers for current and future automotive-sector challenges;
➂ Funded under Germany's develoPPP initiative, it aims to promote sustainable growth and employment in Africa through academic-industry collaboration.
- European Summit of Metrology Experts: EURAMET General Assembly Convenes in Berlin Hosted by PTB
➀ The Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) hosts the EURAMET General Assembly in Berlin, emphasizing metrology's role in technological progress;
➁ Discussions focus on AI, quantum technologies, and digital transformation, aiming to strengthen European competitiveness through reliable measurements;
➂ The assembly underscores the need for European solidarity to address global challenges and maintain high standards in the face of geopolitical shifts.
- Summit of Measurement Experts: EURAMET General Assembly Convenes in Berlin, Hosted by PTB
➀ European metrology experts gather at the EURAMET General Assembly hosted by PTB to address the role of precise measurements in emerging technologies like AI and quantum computing;
➁ The event underscores the importance of pan-European collaboration in metrology research to maintain competitiveness amid global rivalry with the US and China;
➂ PTB’s Dr. Annette Röttger highlights the need to develop standardized measurement methods for new technologies, ensuring Europe’s leadership in innovation and industrial quality.
- Innovative Thin-Film Sensor Technology Enables Automated Real-Time Quality Control in Plastic Injection Molding
➀ Fraunhofer IST developed a thin-film sensor system integrated into injection molds for real-time monitoring of temperature and pressure during plastic manufacturing;
➁ Machine learning algorithms on edge devices analyze sensor data to detect defects instantly and adjust processes before mold release, enabling rapid quality control;
➂ The wear-resistant sensors support sustainable production by allowing recycled materials and high fiber-content plastics to be used efficiently.
- Using Artificial Intelligence to Detect Changes in Lung Tumors with Greater Speed and Precision
➀ Fraunhofer MEVIS developed an AI-based software to enhance lung tumor monitoring via CT scans, improving diagnostic accuracy and efficiency;
➁ The AI detects 11% more tumors compared to conventional methods, processes data in under a second, and reduces computational energy consumption;
➂ Successfully integrated into clinical practice, the tool aims to expand to full-body monitoring, enabling faster treatment adjustments and patient recovery.
- Detecting Changes in Lung Tumors Faster and More Precisely Thanks to Artificial Intelligence
➀ Fraunhofer MEVIS developed a deep-learning-based software to automatically compare CT scans of lung tumors, improving accuracy and speed in tracking disease progression and treatment effects;
➁ The AI-driven solution detects 11% more tumors and processes images in under a second, reducing clinician workload and enabling timely therapy adjustments;
➂ Clinically validated, the tool aims to expand to full-body applications, enhancing patient outcomes and reducing unnecessary costs.
- Improved Protection Against Missile Attacks
➀ Fraunhofer IOSB is developing satellite-based electro-optical sensors to detect missile launches early, enhancing defense response times.
➁ The sensors use infrared technology to identify missile exhaust plumes, enabling faster countermeasures and simulations via MATISSE software for accuracy.
➂ Algorithms minimize false alarms by analyzing heat signatures, with systems already tested on ERNST satellite and geostationary projects with Airbus Defence and Space.
- Better Protection Against Missile Attacks
➀ Fraunhofer IOSB develops satellite-based electro-optical sensors to detect missile launches via infrared signals, enabling faster countermeasures; ➁ The system combines IR cameras, intelligent algorithms, and optimized spectral bands to address environmental factors like atmospheric conditions and background noise; ➂ Simulations using MATISSE software validate sensor performance, while collaborations with Airbus aim to deploy geostationary Earth observation systems.
- Laser Sources of the Future: the Key to Technological Sovereignty
➀ Fraunhofer Institute is addressing Germany's dependency on imported rare-earth elements by developing alternative laser crystals and fibers to ensure technological sovereignty;
➁ Researchers focus on optimizing crystal quality, damage thresholds, and fiber laser design to enhance performance in applications ranging from quantum tech to medical devices;
➂ Innovations in non-linear optics (NLO) and material processing will be showcased at the LASER trade show in Munich, highlighting solutions for supply chain resilience.
- Laser Sources of the Future: the Key to Technological Sovereignty
➀ Germany's laser industry faces supply chain risks due to dependence on rare-earth elements from third countries, jeopardizing technological sovereignty;
➁ Fraunhofer Institute researches alternative laser crystals, nonlinear optical materials, and fiber optics to enhance self-reliance, including novel crystal growth methods and damage threshold measurement technologies;
➂ Applications span quantum tech, medical systems, and defense, with innovations in short/mid-infrared fiber lasers and customized optical components showcased at LASER 2025 trade fair.
- Lasers of the Future: Key to Technological Sovereignty
➀ Germany faces challenges in laser technology due to reliance on rare earths and crystals from third countries, exacerbated by export restrictions and geopolitical tensions;
➁ Fraunhofer Institute (IOSB) develops alternative solutions through advanced crystal growth, nonlinear optical materials, and fiber laser technologies to ensure supply chain independence;
➂ Innovations include improved crystal processing techniques, fiber optics for infrared applications, and robustness testing, showcased at LASER 2025 trade fair in Munich.
- Cognitive Robotics and New Safety Technologies for Human-Robot Collaboration
➀ Fraunhofer IFF developed AI-driven cognitive robots capable of handling complex industrial tasks and introduced PARU safety tech for dynamic workspace monitoring, ensuring compliance with ISO/TS 15066 standards;
➁ Researchers trained AI models via simulations using domain randomization to bridge the Sim2Real gap, enabling adaptability to real-world conditions;
➂ The CAS software package integrates safety solutions for human-robot collaboration, including risk assessment tools and biomechanical data from human trials to optimize robot speed and compliance.
- Cognitive Robotics and New Safety Technologies for Human-Robot Collaboration
➀ Fraunhofer IFF researchers developed AI-driven cognitive robotics to automate complex manufacturing tasks, enabling robots to adapt to unstructured environments and learn via simulations with domain randomization;
➁ The team introduced PARU, a patented safety system using projection and cameras for real-time workspace monitoring, and CAS software tools for risk assessment and compliance in human-robot collaboration;
➂ These innovations, including dynamic safety adjustments and pain-threshold-based speed limits, will be demonstrated at automatica 2025 to enhance trust and efficiency in industrial and care applications.
May 30
- New Study Program at RUB: IT Engineering
➀ Ruhr-Universität Bochum (RUB) will launch a bachelor's program in IT Engineering starting in the 2025/2026 winter semester, focusing on mathematics, IT, computer science, and machine learning to bridge physical and digital systems.
➁ The curriculum emphasizes practical applications of mathematics from the first semester and includes English language courses to prepare students for international collaboration in fields like telecommunications, automotive, and IT industries.
➂ The program is connected to 6G research through the '6GEM' hub, aligning with future technological advancements in cyber-physical systems and next-gen mobile networks.
May 28
- Competition for Young Technical Talents
➀ The Silicon Science Award 2025, organized by CiS e.V. and CiS Forschungsinstitut, extends its submission deadline to June 30, 2025, inviting applications for bachelor's, master's, and doctoral theses in silicon-based microsystems, optoelectronics, and quantum technologies;
➁ The award recognizes innovative research with criteria including scientific impact, originality, and economic potential, aiming to address societal challenges like climate protection and resource efficiency;
➂ Winners will be announced at the WaferBond‘25 conference in Chemnitz on December 3, 2025.
- New Bachelor's Program in International Electrical Engineering
➀ Ostbayerische Technische Hochschule Regensburg (OTH Regensburg) introduces an 8-semester Bachelor’s program in International Electrical Engineering targeting global students, with applications open until June 15, 2025.
➁ The curriculum blends technical training in electrical and information technology with intercultural exchange, language acquisition, and hands-on lab experiences across 33 modern laboratories.
➂ Graduates gain expertise for careers in energy, automotive, medical tech, and communication industries, bolstered by an international focus and flexible specialization options.
- Study Demonstrates Benefits of Molecular Tumor Profiling
➀ A Swiss-led study involving ETH Zürich, Universitätsspital Zürich, and Roche used nine molecular technologies to create detailed tumor profiles within four weeks, enabling personalized treatment for melanoma patients;
➁ Each tumor sample generated ~43,000 data points (0.5 TB), with 75% of oncologists finding the AI-assisted recommendations actionable;
➂ The study pioneers data-driven oncology, showcasing potential for predictive therapy selection and paving the way for future clinical trials focused on treatment optimization.
- Power2Change: Exhibition on Energy Transition Opens at DB Museum
➀ The Power2Change exhibition, running from May to November 2025 at DB Museum Nürnberg, explores pathways to climate-neutral energy solutions in industry, economy, and transport;
➁ Featuring interactive exhibits, it addresses CO₂ utilization for materials, hydrogen/e-fuel aviation, and engages visitors with polls on energy transition challenges and societal acceptance;
➂ Funded by the German Federal Ministry, the exhibition is part of the 2025 Science Year initiative, highlighting collaborative research and innovation for a sustainable energy future.
May 27
- Better Software Through AI - New at UDE: Andreas Vogelsang
➀ Prof. Andreas Vogelsang joins the University of Duisburg-Essen (UDE) as Chair of Software Systems Engineering, focusing on AI-driven requirements engineering and leveraging large language models like GPT to streamline software development.
➁ His research includes developing "Self-Explainable Cyber-Physical Systems" to enhance transparency in autonomous systems, combining AI and model-based approaches to improve user trust.
➂ With prior academic roles at TU Munich, TU Berlin, and the University of Cologne, Vogelsang brings expertise in software engineering, backed by accolades such as "Young Scientist of the Year" in 2019.
- HSBI Students Develop Dartboard with Built-in Bull's-Eye Guarantee – A Mechatronics Project with Fun Factor
➀ HSBI mechatronics students created a self-adjusting dartboard using high-speed cameras, actuators, and image processing to ensure every dart hits the bull's-eye;
➁ The project, supported by Beckhoff Automation and other sponsors, simulated industrial workflows, integrating mechanics, programming, and project management;
➂ Iterative improvements across multiple student teams enhanced the system’s speed and accuracy, with ongoing optimization potential for future groups.
- Cool Computing – Why the Future of Electronics Could Lie in the Cold
➀ An international research team led by Prof. Qing-Tai Zhao proposes that operating computer chips at cryogenic temperatures could reduce energy consumption by up to 80%, addressing the high energy demands of data centers and AI infrastructure;
➁ Cryogenic computing leverages the improved efficiency of transistors at low temperatures but faces challenges like material defects and quantum tunneling, requiring novel materials and architectures (e.g., gate-all-around nanowires, high-k dielectrics) to optimize CMOS technology;
➂ Applications span quantum computing, space exploration, and high-performance data centers, with TSMC actively developing chips tailored for cryogenic environments to enhance energy efficiency and integrate with quantum processors.
- OTH Alumna Dr. Andrea Reindl Awarded Regensburg Prize for Women in Science and Art
➀ Dr. Andrea Reindl received the Regensburg Prize for her groundbreaking dissertation on decentralized battery management systems, enhancing sustainable energy storage and circular economy applications.
➁ Her research at OTH Regensburg and TU Berlin focuses on integrating "second-life" batteries, supporting renewable energy and electromobility goals.
➂ As a mentor, she advocates for women in STEM, highlighting the importance of early initiatives like Girls’ Day and academic support programs.
- A Laser with 'Eyes' and a 'Brain': Machine Learning Simplifies Industrial Laser Processes
➀ Empa researchers developed machine learning (ML) algorithms to optimize laser-based metal processing, such as 3D printing (Powder Bed Fusion) and welding, reducing costly preliminary trials by two-thirds through real-time optical data analysis;
➁ The ML system uses FPGA chips for precise, real-time control of laser parameters during welding, addressing material defects and variability to improve consistency;
➂ This approach enhances accessibility for non-experts, potentially enabling broader industrial adoption of advanced laser manufacturing techniques.
May 26
- Deep Learning at HDZ NRW: Research for Cardiac Diagnostics
➀ The Institute of Radiology at HDZ NRW employs deep learning and AI to enhance cardiac imaging diagnostics, focusing on coronary artery disease;
➁ Dr. Tamino Huxohl leads a study using AI to replace CT-based artifact correction in SPECT imaging, aiming to reduce radiation exposure and improve accuracy;
➂ A multicenter trial demonstrates AI-generated corrections achieve CT-equivalent image quality, indicating potential for broader clinical use and improved patient outcomes.