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June 17
- New Standards for Durable Electronics: The EU Energy Label for Mobile Devices
➀ The EU will enforce a new energy label for smartphones and tablets starting June 2025, evaluating energy efficiency, durability, repairability, and requiring seven-year spare parts availability and software updates;
➁ Developed with Fraunhofer IZM, the label aims to extend device lifespans (e.g., smartphones from 3.0 to 4.1 years), cut e-waste, and save 14 TWh of energy annually by 2030;
➂ Future plans include expanding the initiative to laptops by 2028, reinforcing the EU’s focus on sustainable consumption and circular economy principles.
- New standards for durable electronics: The EU energy label for mobile devices
➀ The EU will enforce a new energy label for smartphones and tablets (Android/iPadOS) from June 20, 2025, evaluating energy efficiency, durability, repairability, and reliability, with Fraunhofer IZM contributing key technical standards;
➁ The label aims to extend device lifespans (3.0 to 4.1 years for midrange phones), reduce e-waste, and save consumers €20 billion by 2030 through requirements like 800+ battery cycles, 7-year spare parts availability, and software/firmware access;
➂ Fraunhofer IZM developed robustness tests (e.g., drop tests) and advocated for reparability metrics, with similar laptop labels planned for 2028.
June 16
- Research Training Group in Organic Electronics receives further funding
➀ The German Research Foundation (DFG) awards €7.3 million over 4.5 years to the TIDE Research Training Group, a joint initiative by the Universities of Cologne and Bonn, focusing on molecular order's impact on organic electronics;
➁ The second funding phase emphasizes device implementation, building on foundational research linking experimental and theoretical approaches in flexible electronics like OLEDs and solar cells;
➂ Doctoral students receive multidisciplinary training, including international research opportunities and a Bench-to-Business program to bridge academic research with industry applications.
- Graduate School in Organic Electronics Receives Additional Funding
➀ The TIDE Graduate School in Organic Electronics secures €7.3 million in renewed DFG funding for a 4.5-year second phase, starting in October 2025;
➀ The Cologne-Bonn university collaboration focuses on molecular order‘s impact on device performance, training multidisciplinary experts for industry demands;
➂ The next phase emphasizes device implementation, international research opportunities, and business education to bridge academia and industry.
- Innovative Robotics Software 'Botfellows Dynamic Safety' Eliminates the Need for Safety Fences
➀ Botfellows GmbH introduces 'Botfellows Dynamic Safety,' a robotics software integrated into control systems, replacing physical safety fences with dynamic zones that adjust robot movements based on human proximity;
➁ The solution enables human-robot collaboration (HRC) in shared workspaces, enhancing productivity and flexibility in tasks like palletizing through coexistence, cooperation, and collaboration scenarios;
➂ Developed in partnership with Estun Automation, the software eliminates complex interfaces, reduces costs, and supports seamless industrial automation.
- Innovative Robotics Software »Botfellows Dynamic Safety« Makes Protective Fences Obsolete
➀ Botfellows GmbH, a spin-off from Fraunhofer IWU, introduces »Botfellows Dynamic Safety«, a software enabling industrial robots to operate without physical safety fences by dynamically adjusting speed based on human proximity;
➁ The solution integrates directly into robot controllers (e.g., Estun), ensuring safety while maintaining productivity through real-time sensor-camera monitoring and customizable human-robot collaboration modes;
➂ Key benefits include reduced costs, layout flexibility, and increased efficiency, showcased through live demos at automatica 2025.
June 13
- Dr. Lutz Stobbe honored with the Fraunhofer IZM 2025 Research Award
➀ Dr. Lutz Stobbe received the 2025 Fraunhofer IZM Research Award for pioneering work on ecological life cycle assessments of ICT infrastructure, focusing on data centers and network technologies;
➁ His research provides granular data on energy, materials, and production processes, enabling eco-design improvements like modular chip manufacturing;
➂ Stobbe advocates for circular economy principles in microelectronics, emphasizing reusability and recyclability while bridging technical analysis with stakeholder communication.
- Fraunhofer IZM Awards Dr. Lutz Stobbe the 2025 Research Prize
➀ Dr. Lutz Stobbe received the 2025 Fraunhofer IZM Research Prize for pioneering research in sustainable ICT, focusing on lifecycle environmental assessment models for digital infrastructure like data centers and network technologies;
➁ His methods combine quantitative data analysis with modular chip design and circular economy principles to identify ecological hotspots and drive eco-friendly microelectronics;
➂ As a cross-disciplinary leader, he bridges technical research and stakeholder communication, advocating for repairability and recyclability in future digital systems.
June 12
- If we want truly intelligent robots, improving the design of their bodies is essential
➀ Current robots prioritize AI-driven software control, but their mechanical limitations hinder agility and energy efficiency compared to biological systems;
➁ Embodied intelligence integrates control into robot physiques, reducing computational demands and enabling passive adaptation to environments;
➂ Soft robots using physical mechanisms like self-oscillating valves exemplify hybrid designs balancing software and mechanical intelligence for future applications.
- If we really want intelligent robots, we need to improve the design of robot bodies
➀ Current robotics focus excessively on AI software, neglecting mechanical design, leading to inefficiency and high energy consumption compared to biological organisms;
➀ The concept of 'embodied intelligence' emphasizes integrating physical design with environmental interactions to enhance robotic agility and reduce computational overhead;
➂ Soft robots made from flexible materials showcase 'physical control' mechanisms, utilizing material properties to minimize reliance on digital controllers and improve energy efficiency.
- TU Darmstadt Releases Position Paper on Power Grid System Stability – Recommendations for Policy and Practice
➀ TU Darmstadt publishes an insights paper addressing power grid stability amid increasing renewable energy integration and phase-out of traditional power plants;
➁ The paper highlights key technologies like grid-forming inverters, storage systems, and control methods to maintain system functions such as frequency stability;
➂ It provides policy recommendations for regulators and grid operators to advance the energy transition without compromising grid reliability.
- Fraunhofer IPMS Develops Energy-Efficient Solution for Real-Time Data Transmission
➀ Fraunhofer IPMS created a TSN (Time-Sensitive Networking) testbed integrated with Li-Fi technology, enabling wireless real-time data transmission for industrial applications like autonomous robots and factory automation;
➁ The solution supports critical TSN standards for precise synchronization and redundancy, ensures low latency, and provides a modular testing environment for complex networks;
➂ It offers benchmarking for energy efficiency, addressing the growing power demands of telecom infrastructure, and enables industries to validate TSN/Li-Fi performance for reliability and innovation.
- Energy-efficient solution for real-time data transmission developed by Fraunhofer IPMS
➀ Fraunhofer IPMS has developed a TSN testbed enabling precise energy analysis and wireless Li-Fi data transmission, achieving breakthroughs for mobile industrial applications;
➁ The Li-Fi-based TSN solution reduces cabling costs and surpasses 5G in latency, supporting autonomous robots in factory automation;
➂ The modular testbed supports key TSN standards and provides industry-first benchmarks for energy efficiency in real-time networks.
- Fraunhofer IWU Puts Saxony's First Mobile Quantum Computer into Operation
➀ Fraunhofer IWU has commissioned Saxony's first mobile quantum computer, developed by Leipzig-based startup SaxonQ, featuring 4 qubits and room-temperature operation;
➁ The device, part of the SAX-QT research network, will advance Industry 4.0 solutions and cognitive production, with applications in automotive, aerospace, and energy-efficient AI;
➂ Its diamond-chip-based design eliminates complex cooling systems, offering portability and industrial suitability while boosting computational performance and sustainability.
June 11
- Open House Day at Fraunhofer FHR on June 29, 2025
➀ The Fraunhofer FHR Institute invites the public to an open house on June 29, 2025, showcasing its pioneering TIRA space observation radar system housed in the world's largest radome, which enables precise tracking of space objects;
➀ Visitors can explore 500 m² of exhibitions on radar and sensor technologies used in space surveillance, defense, traffic optimization, environmental protection, and industrial quality control, alongside interactive activities for children;
➂ The event is free and open to all without registration, featuring on-site food/drinks and requiring valid ID entry security checks.
June 10
- MEMS Vector Scan Module with Enhanced Vibration and Shock Resistance for Space Applications
➀ Fraunhofer IPMS developed a MEMS vector scanner module capable of withstanding extreme conditions for space applications, replacing bulkier galvanometer systems;
➁ The compact module features a 5mm mirror, achieving a 52°×52° scan field, 10x lower power consumption, and high durability through shock-damped suspension;
➂ Potential applications extend beyond aerospace to medical laser therapy and optical communication, with industrial partners already showing interest.
June 7
- BTU Team Lausitz Dynamics Competes Energy-Efficiently in International Competition
➀ The student team Lausitz Dynamics from Brandenburgische Technische Universität (BTU) is participating in the Shell Eco-marathon Europe and Africa 2025 in Poland with their hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, Hydragen, aiming for maximum energy efficiency.
➁ The team of 17 students, led by Prof. Sylvio Simon, redesigned the vehicle to use a hydrogen fuel cell and supercapacitors, enhancing performance and sustainability.
➂ Supported by sponsors and successful test drives, the team is optimistic about the competition, with live results and updates shared on their website and social media.
June 6
- EAH Jena Supports Three Innovative Startup Projects
➀ EAH Jena's rEAHlize initiative provides up to €7,500 in funding through the StartUp@EAH project to support early-stage startups in developing prototypes and market-ready solutions;
➁ Three funded projects include Variflow (a medical safety device for cardiac surgery), Travi (a travel app fostering global connections), and ARletT (an AR tool for enterprise training using XR technology);
➂ The StartUpLab Jena serves as a collaborative hub offering technical expertise, networking, and infrastructure to accelerate innovation.
- Test track for inductive charging on the A6 starts
➀ The FAU-led E|MPOWER project launched a test track on Germany's A6 motorway to research inductive charging for electric heavy-duty vehicles, collaborating with government and industry partners;
➀ Bavarian ministers highlighted the technology's potential to eliminate range anxiety with over 90% efficiency, transforming future mobility;
➂ Testing with equipped vehicles begins in late 2025, focusing on system efficiency, coil integration, and safety compliance, using road-embedded coils to enable wireless charging during driving.
- Quantum Computers Improve Machine Learning Algorithms
➀ Researchers demonstrated that even small-scale quantum computers can enhance machine learning algorithms through a photonic quantum processor experiment;
➁ The study, involving the University of Vienna and international collaborators, showed quantum-enhanced kernel-based machine learning outperforming classical counterparts in specific tasks with fewer errors;
➂ Photonic quantum platforms also exhibited potential energy efficiency advantages, addressing rising energy demands in traditional machine learning workflows.
- Four Locations of the German Center for Future Mobility Present Jointly at UITP Summit 2025 in Hamburg
➀ Four innovation hubs of the German Center for Future Mobility (DZM) showcased their mobility projects at the UITP Summit 2025 in Hamburg, emphasizing digital infrastructure, rail automation, and sustainable transport.
➁ Key focuses included Hamburg's AI and 6G-enabled traffic systems, Annaberg-Buchholz's teleoperated rail interfaces, Minden's automated MONOCAB rail solution, and Karlsruhe's urban-rural mobility hubs with autonomous taxis.
➂ The event featured live demos, prototypes, and discussions on ethical AI, emergency routing, and public acceptance of automated transport.
June 5
- Alexander von Humboldt Professorship for Luisa Petti
➀ Luisa Petti, an expert in sustainable electronics, has been awarded Germany’s prestigious Alexander von Humboldt Professorship and will join RWTH Aachen to bridge neuromorphic computing and bioelectronics;
➁ Her research focuses on eco-friendly materials and printing technologies to develop recyclable sensors and reduce the carbon footprint of AI systems;
➂ Funded with up to €5 million, her work aims to advance flexible integrated circuits and promote environmental sustainability in applications like healthcare and precision agriculture.
- JPEG XS — Forward-Looking Standard for Professional All-IP Video Production
➀ Fraunhofer IIS developed JPEG XS, a low-latency, energy-efficient compression standard for high-quality video transmission, earning the 2025 Joseph von Fraunhofer Prize;
➁ The codec enables real-time 8K video transfer via IP networks, supporting professional media production, autonomous driving, and VR/AR applications with minimal quality loss;
➂ JPEG XS reduces hardware costs and infrastructure complexity, positioning it as a key technology for industries requiring real-time visual data processing.
- JPEG XS – A Pioneering Standard for Professional 'All-IP' Video Production
➀ Fraunhofer IIS researchers developed JPEG XS, an ISO-standard video codec enabling high-quality, low-latency video transmission with minimal resource usage, earning the 2025 Joseph von Fraunhofer Prize;
➁ JPEG XS addresses challenges in professional media production, automotive (e.g., autonomous driving), and VR/AR by reducing data rates without quality loss, while supporting 12-16-bit color depth and Ethernet integration;
➂ The codec’s efficiency, real-time processing, and compatibility provide economic and technological advantages for studios, machine vision, and future applications in All-IP workflows.
- Europe’s First Quantum Accelerator of Its Kind Now Operational
➀ Fraunhofer IAF has deployed Quantum Brilliance’s QB-QDK2.0 quantum accelerator, the first in Europe based on nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in diamond, enabling hybrid quantum-classical computing without cryogenics;
➁ The compact system integrates quantum processors with classical co-processors (NVIDIA GPUs/CPUs) in a server rack, supporting real-world quantum applications like machine learning;
➂ Quantum Brilliance’s diamond-based technology offers long coherence times and environmental stability, positioning it as a key platform for industrial quantum advancements at room temperature.
- Fraunhofer IPMS and TSN Lab Form Partnership to Promote TSN Technology in South Korea
➀ Fraunhofer IPMS partners with TSN Lab to advance Time Sensitive Networking (TSN) technology development and adoption in South Korea, enhancing its presence in the Asian market;
➁ The collaboration focuses on Ethernet-based TSN IP cores for high-precision time synchronization in industries like automotive, aerospace, and telecommunications;
➂ Leveraging Fraunhofer's TSN expertise and TSN Lab's industrial experience, the partnership aims to drive real-time data communication innovations across critical sectors.
- Fraunhofer IPMS and TSN Lab forge Partnership to promote TSN technology in South Korea
➀ Fraunhofer IPMS partners with TSN Lab to advance Time Sensitive Networking (TSN) technology in South Korea, enhancing real-time data communication and industrial applications;
➁ TSN enables high-precision synchronization for Ethernet-based networks, targeting industries like automotive, aerospace, and telecommunications;
➂ Collaboration leverages Fraunhofer’s TSN IP core expertise and TSN Lab’s regional experience to drive innovation and market adoption.
- Fraunhofer IZFP Research Team Receives the Joseph von Fraunhofer Prize 2025
➀ Fraunhofer IZFP won the 2025 Joseph von Fraunhofer Prize for developing AloX, an ultrasound-based system to detect contaminants in molten aluminum, ensuring material purity;
➁ Unlike existing methods, AloX offers fast, cost-effective, and reliable real-time quality control, critical for aluminum's role in sustainability and lightweight manufacturing;
➂ The portable system features patented cooling and titanium waveguides, with ongoing development (AloX 2.0) aimed at broader industrial applications beyond aluminum production.
- Fraunhofer IZFP Research Team Wins the 2025 Joseph von Fraunhofer Prize
➀ A Fraunhofer IZFP team developed the ultrasound-based system **AloX**, which detects impurities in aluminum melts to ensure material quality, addressing risks of component failure due to contaminants;
➁ Unlike costly or slow existing methods, AloX offers real-time, portable, and cost-effective monitoring in extreme foundry conditions, using ultrasonic signals akin to automotive parking sensors;
➂ The team is advancing **AloX 2.0** for broader industrial applications, including other metal melts and non-metallic production processes like adhesives and food manufacturing.
June 4
- Dr. Costanza Lucia Manganelli Appointed to Lead New IHP Junior Research Group
➀ Dr. Costanza Lucia Manganelli has been appointed to lead IHP's new Junior Research Group 'Computational Materials Engineering,' focusing on the MODoMAT project to develop a modeling platform for semiconductor materials;
➁ The project integrates mechanical, optical, and electrical properties of materials to optimize device performance, reduce costs, and accelerate development for applications in power electronics, quantum computing, and autonomous driving;
➂ Supported by IHP's internal program for young researchers, the group aims to bridge experimental and theoretical research while transitioning to third-party funding in later stages.