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June 5
- 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.
- Dr. Costanza Lucia Manganelli Appointed Head of New IHP Junior Research Group
➀ Dr. Costanza Lucia Manganelli will lead IHP's new junior research group focused on Computational Materials Engineering, leveraging her expertise in material science and silicon photonics;
➁ The group's MODoMAT project aims to develop a comprehensive modeling platform integrating mechanical, optical, and electrical properties of semiconductor materials to optimize device performance and accelerate R&D for applications in power electronics, quantum computing, and autonomous driving;
➂ Funded internally for up to five years, the initiative supports young scientists in high-risk, strategy-aligned research, with plans to transition to third-party funding in later stages.
- TUM Ranked 7th for the Training of Digital Leaders
➀ The Technical University of Munich (TUM) ranks 7th globally and 1st in the EU for training digital leaders, per the Digital Leaders in Higher Education rankings;
➀ TUM secures 4th place in Computer Science and Digital Entrepreneurship, alongside top institutions like MIT and Oxford;
➂ TUM consistently excels in employability rankings and student satisfaction, holding 13th in the Global Employability Ranking and 4th for Munich as a study-abroad destination.
- TUM Ranks 7th in Educating 'Digital Leaders'
➀ TUM ranks 7th globally in the 2025 "Digital Leaders in Higher Education" ranking by Emerging, making it the only EU university in the top 10;
➁ TUM secures 4th place in Computer Science and Digital Entrepreneurship, sharing the spotlight with institutions like Cambridge and MIT;
➂ The university also excels in employability rankings, student satisfaction, and Munich's recognition as a top student city.
- Fraunhofer IPT Presents Technologies for Industrial Optics Production at LASER World of PHOTONICS
➀ Fraunhofer IPT showcases three key technologies at LASER World of PHOTONICS 2025: precision glass forming for complex optical components, scalable micro/nanostructuring for large-area surface functionalization, and non-destructive inline optical coherence tomography (OCT) for quality inspection.
➁ The glass-forming process leverages ultra-precision machining and automation to enable cost-efficient, high-volume production of micro-optics for semiconductor, medical, and laser industries.
➂ The OCT system allows real-time, contactless measurement of miniaturized optical parts during production, enhancing quality control and integration into existing manufacturing lines.
- Fraunhofer ILT Puts Quantum Internet Node into Operation - Starting Point for European Networking
➀ Fraunhofer ILT and TNO jointly developed and launched a quantum internet node to serve as a research platform for advancing secure quantum communication and network protocols;
➁ The system leverages NV centers in diamonds and entangled photons to enable tap-proof data transmission, with photonic components like quantum frequency converters ensuring efficient long-distance communication;
➂ The node aims to establish a European test network, fostering collaboration across academia and industry to optimize photonic technologies and develop heterogeneous quantum network interfaces.
- Fraunhofer ILT Launches Quantum Internet Node – Starting Point for European Networking
➀ Fraunhofer ILT initiated a quantum internet node developed with TNO, serving as a research platform to locally test and advance photonic components such as quantum frequency converters and single-photon sources.
➁ The quantum internet enables ultra-secure communication through entangled particles, with future applications like blind quantum computing and distributed quantum systems, though challenges remain in photon transmission stability and noise reduction.
➂ The node in Aachen is a cornerstone for Europe’s quantum network, emphasizing collaboration with industry and academia to optimize photonic technologies and establish compatibility for future quantum internet infrastructure.
June 3
- Interdisciplinary Learning for Sustainable Decision-Making
➀ Technische Universität Chemnitz launches a new interdisciplinary bachelor’s program, Mensch – Umwelt – Technik (MUT), starting in winter 2025/26, aimed at fostering holistic understanding of societal, environmental, and technological challenges;
➁ The program integrates perspectives from engineering, social sciences, economics, and natural sciences, emphasizing practical learning through case studies, projects, and industry collaboration;
➂ Graduates can pursue careers in sustainable product development, environmental management, or further specialize via master’s programs in fields like mechanical engineering or electrical engineering.
- Fewer post-surgical infections with innovative therapeutic technology
➀ The COMS©Blue device, developed by Fraunhofer IZM, Piomic Medical, and reanmo, combines UV light and magnetic pulses to treat surgical site infections (SSIs), reducing reliance on antibiotics and enhancing healing.
➀ The compact device uses antibacterial UV light and stimulates microcirculation to combat resistant bacteria, while advanced thermal management ensures safe patient use.
➂ Supported by real-time data analytics software, this innovation aims to accelerate recovery and lower healthcare burdens, funded by Innosuisse and Germany’s Federal Ministry of Education and Research.
- Fewer Wound Infections After Surgery Thanks to Innovative Treatment System
➀ The COMS©Blue system, developed by Fraunhofer IZM and partners, combines near-UV light and pulsed magnetic fields to treat surgical wound infections, reducing reliance on antibiotics;
➁ The compact device employs advanced thermal management for LEDs to prevent overheating and integrates real-time software for monitoring bacterial load and treatment progress;
➂ Funded by Eurostars, this innovation aims to accelerate healing, lower hospitalization costs, and combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
- Innovative thin-film sensor technology enables automated real-time quality control in plastic injection molding
➀ Fraunhofer IST developed thin-film sensors integrated into tool inserts to provide real-time temperature and pressure monitoring during plastic injection molding;
➁ Machine learning algorithms enable immediate process adjustments and quality assessment before mold opening, enhancing efficiency;
➂ The system supports sustainable material usage, including recyclates and glass fibers, aligning with circular economy goals.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 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.
- 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.
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 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.
- 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.