Precise Sensing for People, the Environment, and Resources

Radar and terahertz technologies enable precise, contactless measurements for applications in health, environmental monitoring, and sustainability. At Fraunhofer FHR, compact sensor systems are developed that reliably detect motion, material properties, and changes—even under challenging environmental conditions.

Contactless Vital Sign Monitoring

A key application area is the contactless measurement of vital parameters. Radar systems enable precise monitoring of respiration and heart rate, even for multiple individuals simultaneously. This opens up a wide range of use cases, including medical monitoring, healthcare and assisted living environments, as well as safety-related applications in mobility and rescue operations. A major advantage lies in the non-invasive and privacy-preserving measurement approach, which does not rely on camera-based systems.

Further information: Vital Sign Monitoring

Recycling and Resource Efficiency

These technologies also provide new opportunities in recycling and sustainable resource management. Materials can be reliably distinguished based on their electromagnetic properties, enabling, for example, accurate sorting of plastics—even in cases where optical methods reach their limits. This contributes to more efficient material cycles and a more sustainable use of resources.

Terahertz Technologies

Terahertz technologies significantly expand the range of possible applications. They enable high-resolution measurements as well as the analysis of subtle material and structural differences. Typical applications include material characterization, the analysis of biological structures, and the measurement of water content, for instance in plants. This makes it possible to reveal details that remain inaccessible with conventional measurement methods.

Further Information: Terahertz.NRW

Applications in Health and Mobility Contexts

The described technologies can be applied in a wide range of scenarios, from stationary health monitoring to in-vehicle sensing. Even under dynamic conditions, radar-based approaches combined with advanced signal processing enable the reliable acquisition of relevant data.