Projects

The demands placed on next-generation electronic systems are continuously increasing: higher operating frequencies, growing integration densities, and emerging applications in communication, sensing, and automation require novel approaches to the design and manufacturing of microelectronic systems. To address these challenges, the European pilot line APECS is being established as a pan-European innovation platform for advanced packaging and heterogeneous integration. Its objective is to accelerate the transition of research outcomes into industrial applications while strengthening Europe’s technological sovereignty.

Radar is the most important sensor for autonomous driving. A hHigh spatial resolution is achieved, according to the multiple-input/multiple-output (MIMO) principle, by a large number of antennas, each connected to individual gates ports of integrated radar ICs. When designing the complex high-frequency interconnect networks, the previously used printed circuit board technologies reach their limits.

Fraunhofer FHR is equipped with a variety of instruments and facilities to perform numerous types of RF measurements. This includes the characterization of antennas and RF circuits, monostatic radar cross section (RCS), and measurements of electromagnetic material parameters. In addition to standard procedures, customized measurement solutions can also be developed. Our in-house precision mechanics workshops provide valuable support.

Reliable environmental sensing is a key requirement for autonomous navigation systems in the maritime environment. Especially on high-traffic waterways, changing visibility conditions, obstructed areas, and complex traffic situations place high demands on sensor technology and data processing. The Radar4FER project investigates the use of distributed radar systems for comprehensive environmental sensing. The goal is to enable robust and complete perception of the environment through the fusion of multiple sensor signals, thereby laying the foundation for reliable collision avoidance systems and autonomous ferries.

Within the UAV‑Rescue project, an international team of researchers is developing an AI‑assisted UAV‑based reconnaissance system to support emergency responders in complex disaster scenarios. The objective of the project is to enable faster and safer localization of trapped or missing persons, as well as to assist responders in situational assessment within hazardous confined environments, such as collapsed buildings, tunnels, or hard‑to‑access debris zones.

The FiberRadar project, part of the NRW Lead Market initiative, is developing a method for the automated and non-destructive analysis of fiber-reinforced composites. The goal is the early detection of defects in glass-fiber-reinforced plastics, such as those used in the rotor blades of wind turbines. In the manufacture of fiber-reinforced composite components, multiple layers of glass fiber mats are stacked on top of one another, vacuum-sealed, and bonded with resin. Defects in the alignment or orientation of the fibers can significantly impair the mechanical properties of the components. Existing testing methods usually allow only a manual inspection of the top layer, while defects in deeper layers are often not detected until after production. This leads to time-consuming rework or the scrapping of components.

The RADIKAL project (Radar Sensors for Automated Drone Control with Intelligent Camera Image Processing and Safe Landing) is developing innovative sensor and assistance systems for autonomous transport drones. The goal is to significantly advance the safe and flexible use of drones in logistics—particularly in express delivery, last-mile delivery, and industrial intralogistics.

Advanced 3D ISAR methods for imaging moving targets enable detailed capture of the spatial structure of objects in motion—even when they move quickly and complexly. In this competency area, Fraunhofer FHR develops methods that allow manned and unmanned aircraft, ground vehicles, and ships to be imaged and characterized three-dimensionally. The work aims to reflect realistic operating conditions and to provide robust, operationally usable solutions.

The SHIELD research project (Interference-Resistant Harmonic ISM Radar for Real-Time Logistics and Distribution) is developing a scalable sensor network that enables reliable localization in highly dynamic warehouse environments where autonomous robots, human workers, and complex material flows operate simultaneously.

Fiber-reinforced composites are considered a key technology in modern lightweight construction. They combine high strength with low weight, thereby making an important contribution to climate protection—for example, by reducing energy consumption and emissions in the mobility and industrial sectors. At the same time, they place high demands on quality assurance in production. Defects such as delamination, air pockets, or material irregularities are often difficult to detect but can significantly impair the performance and safety of the components.