Reference projects

Time-saving weed removal from row crops without chemicals: the autonomous platform uses optical sensor technologies to detect weeds and remove them mechanically.

In the ARAIG project, Fraunhofer IPA makes the safety and performance of service robots comparable and comprehensible. The developed testing environment enables manufacturers of mobile robots to evaluate the safety and performance of their products via standardized tests.

The aim of the research project “Attention-Sensitive Assistance Robot” (ASARob) was to develop new skills for interactive assistive robots - including new image processing solutions - so that they can detect the state of attention of their human counterparts and, if appropriate, influence and guide it through their behavior.

EOS GmbH offers its customers advanced systems for industrial 3D printing. It is also forging ahead with digitizing its own product development process. Together with Fraunhofer IPA, EOS has developed a new data-driven business model that can be used to generate even more added value for the customer.

Innovations in production logistics at BMW include the “Smart Transport Robot” (STR) developed by BMW in cooperation with the Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics IML. In the past, the STR navigated on fixed paths and required special sensors and a close-meshed network of anchors for localization. BMW wanted a solution that was more flexible, autonomous and economical. It was able to realize this with the IPA navigation software, which uses the safety laser scanner already integrated into the STR for navigation. Methods for dynamic path planning and obstacle avoidance assure the necessary degree of autonomy.

With the BIOTRAIN project, an extensive pilot survey on the biological transformation of the industrial value chain was started under the management of Fraunhofer IPA on the 1st of November 2017. Other members of the project consortium are the Fraunhofer institutes IGB, IML, IWM, IPT and IWU. The project aims at analyzing the potential and requirements associated with implementing biological transformation, particularly regarding a sustainable economy.

In the lighthouse project “Cognitive Agriculture”, eight Fraunhofer institutes have joined forces to conduct fundamental research on how to produce agricultural products in a way that is not only environmentally-friendly and highly-efficient but also gentle on resources.

Cleanliness: a leading export! The »Fraunhofer TESTED DEVICE®« seal is respected worldwide and stands for quality internationally. For a decade now, there has been a successful cooperation between VDE Global Services Korea and the Fraunhofer IPA.

Innovative early warning system for the cleanroom (CREMS): Early detection of wear and contamination using sensors, thus preventing damage.

Fraunhofer IPA is a member of the “Digital Innovation Hubs in Healthcare Robotics” (DIH-HERO) project and supports cooperation, technology transfer and innovations in the field of service robotics in the healthcare sector. Interested companies can take advantage of various involvement and funding opportunities.