Research topics

The various departments have a wealth of knowledge related to automotive issues. With a view to current trends, the business unit has defined four research topics:

Networked and global manufacturing

Against the background of flexible markets and shorter product life cycles, the demand for reactive versatile production processes is rising. Flexible solutions for factories and workstations are essential to the future of manufacturing companies.

We identify company-specific change drivers and develop solutions tailored to our customers’ needs. Applications encompass the complete factory spectrum, supporting direct and indirect processes. By bundling the expertise of the various departments, we can assist companies with every stage of development - from analysis and planning right up to implementation.

Electromobility

Fraunhofer’s activities include developing novel storage methods for technologies and independent energy systems. The aim is to recuperate energy throughout the entire lifespan of vehicles. Innovative hybrid storage systems achieve high energy and power densities. We also optimize existing battery and supercapacitor technologies to enhance this effect. Process reliability and weight reduction at competitive product costs mean a lot to us.

Multi-material composites

Subject to mounting requirements concerning energy and resource efficiency, the importance of multi-material composites in the automotive industry is rising. In the field of multi-material composites, Fraunhofer IPA is a globally established research institution, which helps businesses to develop products, as well as plan and automate production processes. Our services include designing, calculating and processing multi-material composites for use in manufacturing, as well as monitoring and optimizing production processes.

Assistive systems for humans in vehicles and in the automotive industry

Fraunhofer IPA develops customized, electromechanical assistive systems for use in the automotive industry. We perform individual motion analyses and simulations, as well as robotic tests. If desired, we also conduct studies, hold training courses and develop new concepts related to ergonomics.

We carry out research on networked and global production processes, electromobility and multi-material composites, as well as develop assistive systems for vehicles and production operations.