idw – Informationsdienst Wissenschaft
Nachrichten, Termine, Experten
Nachrichten, Termine, Experten
Unplanned machine downtime, quality deviations, or wear-related failures rarely occur without warning signs, yet they often go undetected. The Fraunhofer Institute for Surface Engineering and Thin Films IST makes exactly these hidden conditions visible: with integrated thin-film sensor technology that measures directly on the component surface. At Sensor+Test 2026 from June 9 to 11 in Nuremberg, the institute will demonstrate how condition monitoring can be fundamentally improved as a result.
In the Condition Monitoring Area (Hall 1, Booth 1-551/2), Fraunhofer IST will present a concise overview of solutions for monitoring the condition of machines and processes. The exhibition will feature practical approaches in which thin-film sensors are directly integrated into components and tools, where they accurately record pressure, force, and temperature data even under demanding operating conditions.
The continuous collection of this data makes it possible to monitor machine conditions in real time and detect changes at an early stage. On this basis, maintenance can be planned proactively (predictive maintenance), unplanned downtime can be reduced, and system availability can be increased. At the same time, the sensor data opens up new possibilities for active process control, such as improving component quality and minimizing scrap.
A key feature of the thin-film sensor technology developed at Fraunhofer IST is its space-neutral integration. The sensors can be embedded directly in high-loaded functional areas without affecting the geometry or function of the components. Thanks to their high wear resistance, they deliver reliable measurement data even in environments where conventional sensor systems reach their limits.
Such solutions are already being used today in the analysis and optimization of machine elements, in machining, and in plastic injection molding, among other applications. Looking ahead, the importance of such sensor data will continue to grow – especially in conjunction with artificial intelligence and machine learning methods, which enable an even more comprehensive evaluation and utilization of the information obtained.
“Our trade fair presentation demonstrates how current developments in thin-film sensor technology can help to make industrial processes more transparent, efficient, and reliable,” explains Dr. Anna Schott, Group Manager Micro and Sensor Technology at Fraunhofer IST. “Visit us in Hall 1, Booth 1-551/2. We look forward to meeting you.”
https://www.ist.fraunhofer.de/en/press-media/2026/thin-film-sensor-technology-fo...
Thin-film multisensor on a gear tooth flank.
Source: Fraunhofer IST
Copyright: Fraunhofer IST
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Thin-film multisensor on a gear tooth flank.
Source: Fraunhofer IST
Copyright: Fraunhofer IST
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