Modern industry is marked by a strong tendency towards digitization of all industrial processes. Whether they are individual machines, industrial robots, or complete assembly lines – all the components of an intelligent factory require robust, efficient, and reliable microelectronics as basic technology. Tiny, multifunctional, independent sensors record all systemically relevant physical, chemical, and biological readings and results, together with their spatial and temporal coordinates. They transmit the data to the control computers operating in the background, smoothing the way for smart industrial production. Smart power electronics, in turn, allow energy-efficient regulation and control of all processes.
In the “Industrial Automation” business unit of the Fraunhofer Group for Microelectronics, researchers are developing the required micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS). Sensors and actuators as well as power electronics and system integration technologies for the industry of the future.