Fraunhofer Gesellschaft Research Articles

The Alte Schäfflerei at Benediktbeuern Monastery – Conjunction of Architectural Conservation and Energy Performance Improvement in a Historic Buildings

This paper gives an introduction into the research and measures of monument conservation and energy performance improvement of the Alte Schäfflerei (Old Cooperage) in the monastery of Benediktbeuern in upper Bavaria, Germany. The works started in 2010 when a contract was made between the Monastery and the Fraunhofer Gesellschaft to establish the “Fraunhofer Centre for Conservation and Energy Performance of Historic Buildings”. Both, resource and energy efficiency are approaches that are in the focus of the research. Moreover, all measures should comply with monument preservation rules and respect the original substance. The calculation of the impact of different energy saving measures like the improvement of the historic windows, internal and external wall insulation, attic and floor insulation as well as the use of renewable energies from the central power station of the monastery on the overall energy demand is presented.

Multifunctional materials for lean processing of waferscale optics

AbstractThe continuous miniaturization of components and devices along with the increasing need of sustainability in production requires materials which can fulfill the manifold requests concerning their functionality. From an industrial point of view emphasis is on cost reduction either for the materials, the processes, or for both, along with a facilitation of processing and a general reduction of resource consumption in manufacturing. Multifunctional nanoscale materials have been widely investigated due to their tunable material properties and their ability to fulfill the increasingly growing demands in miniaturization, ease of processes, low-cost manufacturing, scalability, reliability, and finally sustainability. A material class which fulfills these requirements and is suited for integrated or waferscale optics are inorganic–organic hybrid polymers such as ORMOCER®s [ORMOCER®is registered by the Fraunhofer Gesellschaft für Angewandte Forschung e.V. and commercialized by microresist technology GmbH under license since 2003]. The combination of chemically designed multifunctional low-cost materials with tunable optical properties is very attractive for (integrated) optical and waferscale applications via a variety of different nano- and microstructuring techniques to fabricate micro- and nano-optical components, typically within less than a handful of process steps. The influence of photoinitiator and cross-linking conditions onto the optical properties of an acrylate-based inorganic–organic hybrid polymer will be discussed, and its suitability for being applied in waferscale optics is demonstrated and discussed for miniaturized multi- and single channel imaging optics.

독일 프라운호퍼연구회의 성공요인과 한국에의 시사점

독일 프라운호퍼연구회의 성공요인과 한국에의 시사점

Nanometallurgical Silicon for Energy Application

Download : Download high-res image (136KB) Download : Download full-size image Professor Ralf B. Wehrspohn was appointed jointly by the Martin Luther University (MLU) Halle-Wittenberg and the Fraunhofer Gesellschaft to work in Halle. As the youngest institute director in the Fraunhofer Gesellschaft, he has headed the Fraunhofer Institute for Microstructure of Materials and Systems IMWS since 2006. He holds the chair of Microstructure-Based Material Design at the MLU. His main areas of work are nanostructure materials and components, such as those used in microelectronics, sensors, photonics, and photovoltaics. Download : Download high-res image (189KB) Download : Download full-size image Xiaopeng Li studied in Professor Wehrspohn’s group from 2010 to 2013. He received his doctorate degree with highest honor Summa Cum Laude. Since 2014, he has been working in Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, CAS. He is currently an associate professor and focuses on developing advanced metal-air batteries, electrolyzers, fuel cells, and silicon nanomaterials.

InP AAC for data compression applications

The authors propose a 2 × 2 asymmetric adiabatic coupler (AAC) indium phosphide (InP) photonic integrated circuit (PIC), suitable for tunable power applications such as all-optical data processing. The device was idealised as the key building block in Haar transform network used for image compression, allowing to perform the necessary separate addition and subtraction of incoming input signals at its output ports. The tunable behaviour of the coupler was demonstrated experimentally for addition/subtraction and splitting (with experimental coupling ratios of 77:23/14:86 and 50:50, respectively) through phase control. The use of the developed InP PIC enables a low footprint structure design together with the high-quality active components (lasers, photodetectors and phase modulators) of Fraunhofer Gesellschaft Heinrich Hertz Institute design toolkit. The proposed study provides a full experimental characterisation of the AAC, exploring its tuning properties and enabling further usage in a plethora of applications in high processing computing and data communications.

Automated, Quality Assured and High Volume Oriented Production of Fiber Metal Laminates (FML) for the Next Generation of Passenger Aircraft Fuselage Shells

Abstract The use of fiber-metal laminates (FML) allows for substantial advantages over a fuselage skin made of monolithic aluminum materials. Glass fiber prepreg reinforced aluminium is characterized by high damage tolerance capabilities, supporting the structural strength capability in case of any kind of damage. For this reason, FML, and GLARE in particular, have been identified as superior materials for aerospace applications. More than 400m2 FML is applied on each A380, as skin panels and as D-noses for both, vertical and horizontal stabilizer. FML possess the potential to become the baseline material for next-generation single-aisle aircrafts [1, 2, 6]. The development of a new production chain that will allow automated fuselage production for future short-haul aircrafts is the focus of the studies that make up the joint project AUTOGLARE. As part of the fifth call-up for the German Aeronautical Research Programme (LuFo), the German Aerospace Center (DLR) is working with its project partners Airbus Operations, Premium Aerotech (PAG) and the Fraunhofer Gesellschaft (FhG). The development of a production chain for stiffened fuselage panels made of Fiber metal Laminates should support a production rate of 60 aircraft per month [3]. This study contains the research work of the DLR and FhG regarding the automated and quality assured process for chain stiffened FML fuselages. In addition to a detailed explanation of the systems that were set up, this paper covers the planned tests, the completed demonstration models and the findings derived from them.

Production technologies for lightweight structures made from fibre–metal laminates in aircraft fuselages

Ever-increasing air traffic is placing growing demands on the materials and production technologies for the commercial aircraft of the future, with researchers seeking to significantly reduce the weight of aircraft structures while maintaining the same manufacturing costs. In addition, concepts relating to one-off development and investment costs must also be taken into consideration in order to meet the requirements for cost-efficient aircraft development. The development of a new production chain that will allow automated fuselage production for future short-haul aircraft is the focus of the studies that make up the joint project AUTOGLARE. As part of the fifth call-up for the German Aeronautical Research Programme, DLR is working with its project partners Airbus Operations GmbH, Premium Aerotech AG and the Fraunhofer Gesellschaft to develop a production chain based on fibre–metal laminates as a material, thus allowing a scaling-up to 60 aircraft per month. The work involved in the AUTOGLARE project relates to stiffened fuselage panels (Airbus fuselage sections 13–18) (Muntane in An overview of commercial aircraft 2017–2018. DVB Aviation Research, 2016). In this study, the automated overall process chain is demonstrated using the baseline production technology created at the Technologiezentrum Nordenham, together with the alternative technologies developed at the DLR sites in Stade and Augsburg. In addition to a detailed explanation of the systems that were set up, this paper covers the planned tests, the completed demonstration models and the findings derived from them.

How Does Germany Do It?

This article focuses on the economic share of manufacturing industry in Germany and the role of Fraunhofer–Gesellschaft in maintaining the same. A principal factor in the manufacturing success of German small- and medium-size enterprises (SMEs) is the Fraunhofer–Gesellschaft (Fraunhofer Society), an independent non-governmental organization that provides high-quality, short-term, affordable applied research that small- and medium-sized firms could not otherwise afford. Fraunhofer's model is a classic government–industry partnership. The federal and state governments, private contract research, and publicly funded contract research each provide roughly one-third of its funding. Germany's government has long supported the application of technology to manufacturing. Its ongoing support for large-scale practical industrial research for small and large companies has helped keep factories and jobs in Germany. There is a need to focus more resources on applied research to harvest the benefits of the investments the nation already makes in basic technology.

Simulation von Extraktionskolonnen für wässrige Zweiphasensysteme

tions are important for the column layout, but most of these models have adjustable parameters, which are tedious to determine. When analyzing relevant literature, it is evident that these parameters are only valid for certain test systems and specific geometry. In that respect, it is a challenging goal to obtain these parameters independently of column geometry, which makes them better applicable for column simulation and scale-up. The presentation is divided to two parts: parameter estimation and parameter validation. Firstly, different model parameters were estimated for various EFCE test systems and column geometries [1]. Optimization was done with and without taking into account the effect of the axial dissipation and mass transfer. Secondly, parameter validation of the models was performed offline using existing experimental data and then online by online monitoring and a simulation tool (OMST). OMST is an inhouse tool based on optical particle online analysis and a conductivity probe (droplet size distribution and holdup) [2, 3]. The mass transfer profiles (GC analysis) are then applied for a model comparison. A rather simple robust realtime simulation using online population balances based on the one primary one secondary particle method (OPOSPM) [3 – 5]. Finally, simplifications and recommendations for employing the droplet interaction kernels are given and extensively validated with online steady and transient state results for a Kuhni DN150 extraction column. The authors would like to acknowledge the Max Buchner Research Foundation and Fraunhofer Gesellschaft for financial support.

Impact of human pluripotent stem cell‐derived extracellular matrix proteins on cardiac cell fate decision

Incomplete understanding of the various factors that drive cardiac cell fate decisions limits the development of clinically successful pluripotent cell‐based strategies for the diseased heart. The objective of this study was to identify crucial ECM proteins that drive cardiac differentiation, presuming that a healthy developing cardiac ECM may help regenerate damaged cardiac tissue by providing a suitable microenvironment for cell replacement strategies. We employed a modified cardiac differentiation protocol, which allowed the robust and reproducible generation of spontaneously beating embryoid bodies (EBs) (85% ± 17.6%) from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs). EB‐derived cardiomyocytes were characterized using immunohistochemistry (IHC) and flow cytometry (cardiac troponin T (cTnT) or sarcomeric myosin), as well as quantitative real‐time PCR (qPCR). Monitoring of cardiac‐specific ECM by IHC and qPCR, allowed the identification of an increased expression pattern of decorin and nidogen‐1 during the differentiation of pluripotent stem cells towards the cardiovascular lineage. We hypothesize that identifying cardiac‐specific ECM proteins secreted during cardiogenesis will lead towards the development of biomaterials that may allow regeneration of the ischemic heart.Grant Funding Source: Fraunhofer Gesellschaft

FutureChemistry – smart, safe and clean chemistry

FutureChemistry Holding BV is a privately owned spinoff company from the Radboud University Nijmegen and the German Fraunhofer Gesellschaft. Our focus is the develop ment and optimisation of fl ow chemistry processes. FutureChemistry enables you to immediately take full advantage by providing products and services so everyone can easily implement fl ow chemistry into their own laboratory. FutureChemistry is located in the Technology and Science Park of the Radboud University Nijmegen. FutureChemistry ’ s strong knowledge network ensures fast implementation of recent scientifi c and technological breakthroughs.

MANAGEMENT OF INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY IN RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT: A SEARCH FOR SYSTEMS FROM THE VIEWPOINT OF RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY ORGANIZATIONS

The following discussion tries to identify the key factors and mechanisms for the management of IP in research and development (R&D). Considering some experiences gathered from different players in R&D, particularly institutes of the Fraunhofer Gesellschaft, a significant correlating starting point can be detected for the various R&D cooperation and schemes: By relying on a solid IP basis, R&D players can choose the most appropriate R&D cooperation and commercialization schemes to deal with meet their individual situations. The way of choosing a course is a matter of using the most individual IP management methods, a matter of puzzling, promising technologies with appropriate partnerships — at the right time. Diverse as these methods of choice are, there are nevertheless some basic considerations for IP management which may help to meet the challenges of the complex and demanding puzzling task. Most important seem to be continuous and diligent care for own IP, the creation and fostering of sustainable and enduring R&D networks, and the assessment of marketing chances. As practice shows, balanced and flexible cooperation between the research community and industry often proves to be the key to joint progress and, in the end, to successful innovation.

Development of Direct Ethanol Fuel Cell Membrane Electrode Assemblies Using Sulfonated Polyetheretherketone Mixed-Matrix Membranes

In the framework of a project funded by the Fraunhofer Gesellschaft, a direct ethanol fuel cell has been developed. As part of the development, a new catalyst concept for the anodic oxidation of ethanol at an increased CO2 efficiency by using two different catalysts for two steps in the reaction process has recently been presented. Furthermore, new membranes based on an organic-inorganic mixed-matrix which exhibit reduced ethanol cross-over at an increased selectivity for water diffusion, have been developed. In this paper we will describe the developments which were made to integrate these two approaches into membrane electrode assemblies. The obtained membrane electrode assemblies showed better performance in a DEFC compared to membrane electrode assemblies using Nafion® 115, in particular at low temperature and low cathode airflow conditions which are typical for portable applications.

ATM-based multimedia communication via NGSO-satellites

Future broadband satellite networks for multimedia will be seamlessly integrated into terrestrial broadband networks which often use asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) and recently also the less complex multi protocol label switching (MPLS) technique as transmission and switching protocol. In light of this, future broadband satellite networks may adopt the ATM transmission scheme and implement ATM or ATM-like switches on board the satellites. However, as compared to communication in fixed networks, satellite communication is characterized by special constraints (e.g. signal delay, channel quality, dynamic network topology) that require novel ATM-based communication technology for satellite systems. This paper presents results from the ATM-Sat project that aims to complete this technically challenging and important R&D task in the cooperation between DLR, Fraunhofer Gesellschaft and Tesat-Spacecom. In brief the following aspects have been addressed in the ATM-Sat project: development of the concept and communication technology for a multimedia satellite system with, non-geostationary orbit (NGSO) satellites; inter satellite links (ISLs); on-board ATM switching; fixed and mobile terminals; verification of the developed communication technology with a demonstrator. In particular the ATM-Sat R&D tasks cover the system and protocol architecture, on-board processing, ISL routing, up/downlink and on board ATM resource management (including medium access control), error control, IP over satellite-ATM, and active intelligent antennas. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Researchers today must be looking for the roads that lead to the future

The current economic woes of Germany seem likely to have a negative impact on Government funding for the Fraunhofer Gesellschaft, the research combine that has pushed back the frontiers in many applied materials sciences, including PM. But its new President, Professor Hans-Jörg Bullinger is asking the Government for more money. His words will strike chords in other countries…

Hot moulding of hardmetals and ceramics: R.Lenk et al. (Fraunhofer Gesellschaft IKTS, Dresden, Germany.)

Hot moulding of hardmetals and ceramics: R.Lenk et al. (Fraunhofer Gesellschaft IKTS, Dresden, Germany.)

ELA — A framework for life-cycle impact assessment developed by the Fraunhofer Gesellschaft Part B — Basic functionality of ELA explained with an example: Impact assessment of alcohol sulphates based on oleochemical and petrochemical sources

As part of a publication series, this paper deals with the description and explanation of basic features of the PC-compatible computer program ELA ( E nvironmental L oads A nalysis) with the example of alcohol sulphate production based on different raw materials. Beside an “open environment” architecture to facilitate data transfer from and to the system, ELA consists of a graphics module and data bases containing information on emissions, resources, waste and on “actual flows” data for 3 reference areas. The latter is for the impact assessment results analysis (formerly “normalisation”) module. Thus, inventory data sets can be assessed very quickly in terms of environmental impacts and the results can be instantly visualised. Beside that, ELA offers the option to include ecotoxicological and toxicological aspects in the impact assessment.

Experiences with the application of QSAR in the routine of the notification procedure.

On behalf of the Umweltbundesamt the Fraunhofer Gesellschaft has developed a software system (SAR-system) comprising more than 90 estimation models for endpoints relevant in environmental risk assessment. These estimation models are based on the approach of quantitative structure-activity relationships (QSAR). All models were checked for their validity and application range. In the last months the Umweltbundesamt started to test the applicability of some models concerning the endpoints fish acute toxicity, daphnia acute toxicity and ready (i.e., ultimate) biodegradability in the daily routine of the notification procedure. For testing these models the corresponding confidential data given in the dossiers of substances notified 1993 in Germany, were used. We were able to make calculations for 36% of the notified substances. For the remaining 64% of the chemicals it was impossible to accomplish SAR estimations due to several reasons, e.g., ionic structure of the compounds. Different results for the applicability of the mentioned endpoints are obtained. The predictions of the fish and Daphnia toxicity are in sufficient agreement with the experimental results, in case of the fish toxicity we receive 58% agreement, for the Daphnia toxicity 56%. The corresponding values which were obtained in the US EPA/E.C. Joint Project on the evaluation of (quantitative) structure activity relationships were 82.3% and 70.9%. About 300 different models were used for the calculations of these endpoints within the framework of the EPA/EC project. The SAR-system presented here contains 8 models for estimating the fish toxicity and 6 models for the Daphnia toxicity. For the prediction of the biodegradability the results obtained with the SAR-system are rather poor and have to be improved. Meanwhile the SAR-system is commercially available and can be ordered at the Fraunhofer Institute for Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Schmallenberg (Germany).

Fraunhofer resource center for laser technology ‐ USA

Fraunhofer Gesellschaft (FhG) is a non-profit-making organization for applied research in the field of natural and engineering sciences. In the industrial engineering field, the Fraunhofer concept combines its own technical resources with those of universities and industry to develop current and future products and/or processes for industrial use. Fraunhofer bridges the gap between problem-solving and basic research at the university level through process and application development to a completed manufactured product or process at the industrial level. This bridge is in reality a state-of-the-art laboratory facility with highly experienced personnel and the latest up-to-date industrial equipment and diagnostic tools. The FRC for Laser Technology is located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, on the University of Michigan campus. The equipment in the laboratory consists of high-powered CO{sub 2} and Nd/YAG lasers with computer-controlled precision devices and beam delivery components. The high power of the CO{sub 2} laser equipment lends itself to cladding, surface treatment, and deep-penetration welding. The multikilowatt Nd:YAG with fiber optics delivery and robotic motion systems has superior capabilities for cutting and welding applications. The services provided by Fraunhofer will not only supplement domain research and product development in the field of laser application but will also enhance manufacturing technologymore » utilization among US customers. Cooperation with industry will cover the entire field from feasibility studies via precompetitive studies to product development. The funding for such products may be shared by state or federal government and industry, or cone directly from the companies alone, in which case research will be confidential.« less

Research with synchrotron radiation in the vacuum ultraviolet and soft x-ray region at BESSY

The 800 MeV storage ring BESSY provides synchrotron radiation for a large community of users, including the Fraunhofer Gesellschaft and its industrial partners for lithography, the Physikalisch Technische Bundesanstalt for radiometry and a large group of universities and research institutes in the area of basic research. We review briefly the current status of the facility and describe some recent experimental results obtained in the latter area.