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April 24
- Reducing Calculation Costs for Reliable AI Responses
The ETH Zurich researchers have developed a method that makes AI answers more reliable over time. Their algorithm is highly selective in choosing data. Additionally, up to 40 times smaller AI models can achieve the same output performance as the best large AI models.
ChatGPT and similar tools often amaze us with the accuracy of their answers, but also often lead to doubt. One of the big challenges of powerful AI response machines is that they serve us with perfect answers and obvious nonsense with the same ease. One of the major challenges is how the underlying large language models (LLMs) of AI deal with uncertainty. It has been very difficult until now to judge whether LLMs focused on text processing and generation generate their answers on a solid foundation of data or whether they are on uncertain ground.
Researchers from the Institute for Machine Learning at the Department of Computer Science at ETH Zurich have now developed a method to specifically reduce the uncertainty of AI. 'Our algorithm can specifically enrich the general language model of AI with additional data from the relevant thematic area of the question. In combination with the specific question, we can then specifically retrieve those relationships from the depths of the model and from the enrichment data that are likely to generate a correct answer,' explains Jonas Hübotter from the Learning & Adaptive Systems Group, who developed the new method as part of his PhD studies.
April 23
- 3D-Herz-MRT: Diagnose Dangerous Rhythm Disturbances Without Heart Catheter
➀ A new diagnostic method, 3D-KM-KMRT, is being used to detect SCAI in patients after Fallot's correction without invasive catheter procedures.
➁ Dr. Sophia Klehs and her team are conducting a study to evaluate the frequency and formation of SCAI in around 500 patients.
➂ The research project has been awarded the Gerd Killian Project Funding of the German Heart Foundation with around 60,000 euros.
April 22
- High-Voltage CMOS Backplane for Very Bright OLED Microdisplays
➀ The article discusses the development of a high-voltage CMOS backplane for very bright OLED microdisplays.
➁ It explains how stacking OLED layers can improve brightness while maintaining lifespan and reliability.
➂ The advantages of OLED technology over microLEDs are highlighted, emphasizing maturity, efficiency, and color representation.
April 17
- A Pioneering Spectrometer for Hard X-rays at European XFEL
Researchers at the European XFEL have developed a new Laue spectrometer for high photon energy X-ray measurements. This device, known as HELIOS, achieves high precision and signal strength, enabling the study of 4d transition metals and their applications in fields like photocatalysis and solar cells.
- Development of a Sensitive Spectrometer for Hard X-ray Radiation
Researchers at the European XFEL have developed a new measuring device for hard X-ray light, known as a Laue spectrometer. It can detect photon energies over 15 kiloelectronvolts with high precision and improved efficiency. This is important for the study of technologically significant materials, such as those capable of transporting electricity without loss or enhancing the efficiency of chemical processes.
Traditional X-ray spectrometers operate in the Bragg geometry, where X-rays are bent by parallel atom planes, similar to mirrors reflecting visible light. However, at high energies, much of the hard X-ray light passes through the crystal unused, reducing the performance of conventional spectrometers. The new Laue spectrometer developed at the FXE experimental station at the European XFEL addresses this issue by working in the Laue geometry, where X-rays pass through the crystal and are bent by atomic layers perpendicular to the surface. This makes the new Laue analyzer more efficient at higher X-ray energies.
The newly developed device, called the High Energy Laue X-ray Emission Spectrometer (HELIOS), is now available to all users at the European XFEL. It offers an extremely high precision of about 1.2 x 10^-4 at a photon energy of about 18.6 keV, reaching 4 to 22 times higher signal strength compared to conventional spectrometers. This allows the detection of particularly interesting electronic transitions in so-called 4d-transition metals, which are otherwise very difficult to measure.
April 16
- Minister Ina Brandes Visits 'Lab-on-Tour' Science Truck of Hochschule Hamm-Lippstadt
The Minister for Culture and Science of North Rhine-Westphalia, Ina Brandes, visited the 'Lab-on-Tour' science truck at the Hamm-Lippstadt University of Applied Sciences (HSHL) campus on April 16, 2025. The 'Lab-on-Tour' is part of the 'Digitalise_SWF' project started in 2023, funded by the Federal-State Initiative 'Innovative University'. Minister Brandes gained insights into the activities of the transfer project and experienced virtual reality and driving simulations in the truck.
Brandes emphasized the importance of nurturing young talents in MINT subjects and the role of the science truck in engaging students in mathematics, informatics, natural sciences, and technology. The project aims to strengthen digitalization skills in the region and benefit small and medium-sized enterprises.
During the visit, the focus was on virtual and augmented reality in product development and connected mobility, showcasing a virtual industrial environment and a driving simulator.
- Prototype of a Particularly Sustainable and Energy-Autonomous E-Bike Terminal Developed at HKA
➀ A prototype for an E-Bike terminal has been developed at the Hochschule Karlsruhe (HKA) as part of a project aiming for sustainable mobility;
➁ The terminal is constructed primarily from renewable resources (wood) and is designed to be replicable in other locations;
➂ The project includes a solar power system to charge the E-bikes and features social components such as a meeting point for students and staff.
- The IAMHH e.V. Welcomes Dr. Maximilian Heres as CEO
➀ The IAMHH e.V. has appointed Dr. Maximilian Heres as CEO to advance the industrial adoption of additive manufacturing and drive innovation across key sectors.
➁ Dr. Heres has extensive experience in advanced manufacturing processes and has led projects in 3D printing and robotics.
➂ As CEO, Dr. Heres aims to establish additive manufacturing as a key technology for the future of production.
- Smart and Compact Sensorics through Edge AI
The Fraunhofer Institute for Photonics Microsystems (IPMS) is involved in an interdisciplinary research project called 'InSeKT' (Development of Intelligent Sensor Edge Technologies). This project, carried out by the Technical University of Wildau, the Leibniz Institute for Innovative Microelectronics (IHP), and the Fraunhofer IPMS, aims to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) more effectively at the 'edges' of IT networks. The project focuses on miniaturized sensor structures and the integration of electronic components, with the goal of enabling complex calculations directly at the data source, such as at the sensor itself.
Current data processing with AI often occurs through central cloud computing solutions, leading to data transfer over large distances and potential data leaks. The project addresses this by promoting decentralized data processing for improved data security and real-time system capabilities.
The project covers various areas, including gas analysis using ion mobility spectrometers (IMS), data-supported evaluation of photodetectors for the near-infrared wavelength range, and the adapted use of capacitive microelectromechanical ultrasonic transducers (CMUTs) for improved imaging. The generated data will be used to train Edge-KI systems for fast and accurate data processing.
- Smart and Compact Sensors with Edge-AI
➀ The Fraunhofer IPMS is involved in a research project called InSeKT to develop new technological approaches for integrating AI at the edges of IT networks.
➁ The project aims to enable complex calculations directly where data is generated, improving data protection and real-time capabilities.
➂ Fraunhofer IPMS is working on sensor technology, including gas analysis using IMS, near-infrared photodetector evaluation, and adapted use of CMUTs for improved imaging.
- The IAMHH e.V. Association Welcomes Dr. Maximilian Heres as Managing Director
➀ The IAMHH e.V. Association has appointed Dr. Maximilian Heres as its new Managing Director to promote the development of new technologies in the Hamburg Metropolitan Region and the industrial application of additive manufacturing.
➁ Dr. Heres has over seven years of experience in the development, optimization, and implementation of advanced manufacturing processes, focusing on integrating futuristic manufacturing technologies like 3D printing.
➂ As the new Managing Director, Dr. Heres will represent IAMHH e.V. in local and national scientific and industrial organizations, fostering collaboration and innovation.
April 15
- IHP and Nagoya University, Japan, Jointly Develop Next-Generation Semiconductor Technologies
➀ IHP and Nagoya University have been collaborating on research in the fields of SiGe epitaxy, nanotechnology, and advanced semiconductor and optoelectronic devices.
➁ The partnership aims to develop new epitaxy techniques and optimize semiconductor interfaces for miniaturization of electronic devices.
➂ The collaboration includes academic exchanges and a visiting professorship to strengthen academic ties.
- IHP and University of Nagoya, Japan, Collaborate on Next-Generation Semiconductor Technologies
➀ IHP, in collaboration with the University of Nagoya, is engaged in research on SiGe epitaxy, nanotechnology, and advanced semiconductor and optoelectronic devices.
➁ The partnership aims to optimize semiconductor interfaces through new epitaxial techniques and methods to enable the miniaturization of electronic devices.
➂ The research focuses on SiGe epitaxy processes, properties of silicon-germanium nanowires and nanoparticles for energy-efficient transistors and lasers, and luminescence properties of Si and Ge nanostructures.
- IHP and the University of Nagoya, Japan, Collaboratively Develop Next-Generation Semiconductor Technologies
The IHP - Leibniz-Institut für innovative Mikroelektronik has been closely collaborating with the University of Nagoya, Japan, for many years. The partnership involves research collaboration in the fields of Silicon-Germanium Epitaxy (SiGe), Nanotechnology, and advanced semiconductor and optoelectronic devices.
The partners are developing new epitaxy techniques and methods to optimize semiconductor interfaces, enabling the miniaturization of electronic devices. One key element is the investigation of SiGe epitaxy processes using the IHP technology platform. The properties of Silicon-Germanium nanowires and nanoparticles are being studied for use in energy-efficient transistors and lasers on silicon. Other research topics include the luminescence properties of Si and Ge nanostructures and innovative solutions for sub-10nm technologies.
Prof. Dr. Andreas Mai, Head of the Technology Department at IHP, says, 'We are very excited about this collaboration as it allows us to benefit from the unique resources and experiences of both parties. The future of microelectronics and silicon photonics is being advanced through such international partnerships.' Dr. Yuji Yamamoto, Project Leader at IHP, adds, 'Our research on SiGe nanostructure epitaxy enables the development of energy-efficient transistors and light sources that can revolutionize quantum electronics and optoelectronics.'
- New TSN-MACsec IP Core for Secure Data Transmission in 5G/6G Communication Networks
➀ Fraunhofer IPMS and aconnic AG have developed a new TSN-MACsec IP core for secure data transmission in 5G/6G networks.
➁ The IP core combines the advantages of TSN and MACsec, enhancing data protection and reliability.
➂ The project, RealSec5G, aims to integrate cybersecurity and data security, meeting functional safety and data security requirements.
- New TSN-MACsec IP-Core for Secure Data Transmission in 5G/6G Communication Networks
➀ The Fraunhofer IPMS has developed a new TSN-MACsec IP-Core in collaboration with aconnic AG for secure data transmission in 5G/6G networks.
➁ The project 'RealSec5G' aims to integrate cybersecurity and data security into a cost-effective and easy-to-integrate system.
➂ The developed system combines TSN functionality with Linespeed encryption to ensure real-time capability and redundancy.
April 11
- Contactless Energy Transfer for Electric Vehicles – E|Road-Center as New Research Location in Franconia
➀ The Bavarian State Minister Hubert Aiwanger has opened the new technology center of the Fraunhofer IISB for research into contactless energy transfer for electric vehicles, and awarded the funding certificate.
➁ The E|Road-Center is another milestone in the high-tech spectrum of the Cleantech Innovation Park in Hallstadt near Bamberg.
➂ The center focuses on technologies for contactless energy transfer from the road directly into the electric vehicle, while stationary and during operation.
April 10
- KIT Launches Three New English Master Programs
➀ KIT is expanding its English language study offerings with three new master's programs starting in the summer semester of 2025;
➁ The programs include 'Mechatronics and Information Technology', 'Electrical Engineering and Information Technology', and 'Computer Science';
➂ These programs aim to enhance internationalization and attract students from diverse backgrounds.
- Automated Vehicles Can Also Cooperate - Demo Event for Connected Cooperative Driving (EU Project PoDIUM)
➀ The University of Ulm and Duisburg-Essen, along with Bosch and Nokia, organized a demo event for connected cooperative driving as part of the EU PoDIUM project.
➁ A live demonstration showcased the seamless coordination of automated vehicles in complex traffic situations.
➂ The research focuses on enabling secure interaction between automated vehicles using sensor data and a cooperative maneuver planner.
- Coburg High-Tech Award for Bachelor Thesis: Combating the Threat of Heat Collapse in Electric Motors
➀ Regina Luig developed a method for indirect temperature monitoring of the rotor magnets in electric motors during her bachelor's thesis at Hochschule Coburg.
➁ Instead of temperature, she measures changes in the magnetic field, which weaken as the motor heats up.
➂ This innovative approach helps prevent overheating and reduces the need for rare earth materials, thus contributing to the sustainability of electric motors.
- Fraunhofer IPMS Achieves Miniaturization and Optimization of ISFET-based pH Sensor Control
➀ The Fraunhofer Institute for Photonics Microsystems (IPMS) has achieved a milestone in chemical liquid analysis with the miniaturization of electronics required for ion-sensitive field-effect transistors (ISFETs).;
➁ The new electronics have been made more energy-efficient and have reduced manufacturing costs, making them suitable for direct use or integration into custom measurement systems.;
➂ The ISFETs enable continuous and precise measurement of pH values by determining the concentration of specific ions in water or other aqueous media in real-time.
April 9
- The Future of § 14a EnWG: A Guide to the Active Operation of Low-Voltage Networks
➀ The new regulation under § 14a EnWG allows grid operators to manage the power consumption of large consumers like heat pumps and electric vehicle charging stations to ensure grid stability.
➁ Fraunhofer CINES held a workshop with grid operators, researchers, consulting firms, and industry partners to address challenges in the low-voltage network sector.
➂ The insights were published in a whitepaper that discusses current issues and future long-term usage options for the requirements of § 14a EnWG.
- Zellerfeld Collaborates with Fraunhofer IAPT to Scale Up Its Additive Production
➀ Zellerfeld, a leader in personalized shoe additive manufacturing, is expanding its production capacity from 200 to thousands of 3D printers.
➁ The Fraunhofer IAPT is providing expert consultation and support to plan the new infrastructure.
➂ The collaboration aims to optimize production processes and ensure compliance with legal and safety standards.
April 8
- Non-Invasive Blood Sugar Measurement with THz Technology: Precise and Pain-Free at Duisburg-Essen University
➀ Researchers at Duisburg-Essen University have developed a new method for measuring blood sugar levels at the fingernail without a needle. The technology uses Terahertz waves that penetrate the fingernail and reflect off the nail bed.
➁ The Terahertz technology is based on electromagnetic waves with a wavelength between microwave and infrared radiation, allowing for detailed analysis of biological tissues without damaging them.
➂ The sensor, which is only a few mm2 in size, could be integrated into everyday items like keychains or artificial fingernails.
- Frischer Wind für die lokale Energiewende
➀ The Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences (Frankfurt UAS) is participating in the European project '4A4PEDs' to promote the energy transition in local communities.
➁ The project, funded under the EU Partnership Driving Urban Transitions (DUT), aims to develop innovative solutions for local energy systems.
➂ The project focuses on four central principles: availability, accessibility, affordability, and the alliance of all relevant stakeholders.
- Laser Welding Brought to Quantum Technology: Reliable Fiber-PIC Connections
The Fraunhofer IZM researchers have developed a laser welding process for connecting PICs with optical fibers without adhesives, which can operate at cryogenic temperatures. This technology promises more reliable, faster, and cheaper fiber-PIC connections, revolutionizing quantum technology applications.
Low temperatures are essential for observing quantum effects, which can significantly impact quality of life. The QWeld project focuses on cryogenic quantum computing systems and the integration of PIC-based modules for secure communication and connections in quantum computing.
The technology is durable, reproducible, and can be automated, making it suitable for large-scale production of PICs for quantum systems.
- Reliable Fiber-PIC Connections for Quantum Technology Thanks to Advanced Laser Welding Process
The researchers at Fraunhofer IZM have developed a glue-free laser welding process for coupling photonic integrated circuits (PICs) with optical fibers, which can also be used in cryogenic environments of up to four Kelvin, equivalent to -269.15°C. This technology offers a more reliable, faster, and cheaper fiber-PIC coupling through a direct quartz-quartz connection, revolutionizing applications in quantum technology.
Low-temperature environments are essential for observing quantum effects, which can greatly improve human quality of life, such as in big data processing for personalized medicine and hospital information management. The development of cryogenic systems for quantum computing is currently being actively promoted. Quantum technological systems with implemented PIC-based modules offer a compact solution for secure communication and networking in quantum computing. Reliable fiber optic connections are, however, a fundamental requirement for such photonic quantum systems.
The focus of the QWeld research project is on realizing this connection technology for applications in cryogenic environments. Standard CMOS-manufactured PICs with a silicon dioxide (SiO2) coating are used, which is necessary for glass-glass laser welding. A vertical coupling of the fiber with the PIC, typically with a specific angle, is a special feature. The laser meets the contact point between the PIC and the fiber on both sides during welding and creates a material-bonding connection within seconds. This manufacturing process offers significant time savings.
- Night Sky Glow Stimulates Cyanobacteria Growth and Matter Cycling in Lakes
The study by the Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB) shows that light pollution, known as skyglow, promotes the growth of cyanobacteria and stimulates matter cycling in lakes. The research used a unique lake laboratory in Stechlinsee, where 24 experimental cylinders were used to study the effects of light pollution on the water ecosystem. The results indicate that low light intensities, such as typical skyglow, can significantly increase the abundance of cyanobacteria and stimulate the carbon cycle in the lake.
- What Innovational Potential Does the Use of Graphene in Lithium-Ion Batteries Offer?
The use of graphene in lithium-ion batteries has shown promising potential to significantly improve battery performance. Although technological advancements have been made, the widespread application of graphene-based battery components remains challenging. The article 'Graphene Roadmap Briefs No. 4' published in the journal 2D-Materials highlights the central trends since 2017 and future prospects for the commercialization of graphene in battery technology.
Graphene, due to its unique electronic, mechanical, and chemical properties, is considered a promising material for the further development of lithium-ion batteries (LIB). The publication 'Graphene Roadmap Briefs (No. 4): innovation prospects for Li-ion batteries' summarizes the key progress and challenges in the development and commercialization of graphene-based lithium-ion batteries, focusing on graphene-based silicon anodes.
Graphene can improve the energy density of batteries, offer advantages in fast-charging capabilities, and enhance the stability and lifespan of batteries through its integration into silicon anodes. However, the stability of silicon anodes currently does not match that of conventional graphite anodes. The cost-effective production methods for graphene-based batteries are still lacking, and the prices of graphene and related materials have remained unexpectedly high in the past.
April 7
- Internationalization of the Ernst-Abbe-Hochschule Jena – New Perspectives for Students in the SpEEED Project
The Ernst-Abbe-Hochschule Jena (EAH Jena) is strengthening its international ties and actively responding to global challenges. With the DAAD-funded project 'Space, Bioprocess and Environmental Engineering, Sustainable Economy and Development' (SpEEED), the university is intensifying cooperation with partner universities in South America and Southeast Asia. The project, which runs from January 2025 to the end of 2027, focuses on developing innovative solutions for urgent issues such as climate change and increasing resource consumption.
Global cooperation for sustainable solutions: 'The major problems of our time can only be overcome through international dialogue and cooperation. SpEEED opens up new opportunities for our students to gain international experience and develop practical solutions for global issues,' explains Prof. Dr. Alexander Richter, Professor of Electrical Measurement Technology and Optoelectronics and project contact at EAH Jena.
Student benefits: More than 40 percent of EAH Jena students benefit directly from the measures within the SpEEED project. Especially students from the fields of business administration, electrical engineering and information technology, medical technology and biotechnology, and business engineering can apply for funding for international exchange programs.