Branch »Integrated Silicon Systems« (ISS)

1. Sensor and Measurement Concept

Starting from a specific customer application, we develop suitable sensing principles or adapt existing IPMS technologies. We consider the measurement parameter, environmental conditions, accuracy, dynamics, size, power consumption and integration requirements as a whole.

This includes:

• Sensor and measurement concept development
• Feasibility studies and technology comparisons
• Sensor scouting and selection of suitable sensing principles
• Development of application-specific sensor concepts
• Consulting in early product development phases
• Contributions to research and collaborative projects

2. Sensor Integration and Electronics “Smart Sensor Integration”

We combine sensors with suitable drive, readout and interface electronics to create functional sensor modules. Key aspects such as miniaturization, signal quality, power consumption, mechanical integration and integration into the overall system are considered from an early stage.

This includes:

• Development and assembly of customized sensor modules
• Electronics and interface concepts
• Sensor control and data acquisition
• Integration of sensors into embedded and customer systems
• Development of evaluation platforms and functional prototypes
• Consulting on sensor-electronics interfaces

3. Signal Processing & Edge Intelligence “Sensor Intelligence & Edge AI”

We develop methods for turning raw sensor data into reliable, application-relevant information. Classical signal processing, calibration and feature extraction are combined with AI methods, with data processing implemented directly on embedded or edge platforms where required.

This includes:

• Development of customized signal processing algorithms
• Data analysis and feature extraction
• Development and training of AI models
• Edge AI implementation
• Optimization for computing performance, power consumption and real-time operation
• Feasibility studies and algorithm prototypes

4. Intelligent Sensor Systems “Application-specific Intelligent Sensor Systems”

We combine sensing, electronics, embedded computing, signal processing and AI into application-specific systems. The overall system is designed holistically with regard to the measurement task, performance, power consumption, size and operating conditions.

This includes:

• Development of customized intelligent sensor systems
• System architecture and sensor-edge co-design
• Development of edge nodes and smart sensor platforms
• Integration of different sensor modalities
• Development of multisensor systems
• Consulting on system architectures and technology roadmaps

5. Demonstrators and Proof-of-Application

We transfer technologies from the laboratory into application-oriented demonstrators, providing a reliable proof of their functionality under realistic conditions. In addition to the technical proof of concept, we evaluate the benefits for the specific application.

This includes:

• Development and manufacturing of demonstrators
• Proof-of-concept and proof-of-application systems
• Integration of sensors and electronics into test platforms
• Mobile and battery-powered demonstrators
• Development of measurement equipment and evaluation kits
• Field trials and application testing

6. Characterization, Validation and Optimization

We characterize sensors, components and complete systems under defined and application-oriented conditions. Based on the measurement data, we identify performance limits, sources of error and optimization potential, providing a sound basis for further development.

This includes:

• Sensor and system characterization
• Electrical, optical, mechanical and dynamic measurements
• Performance and benchmark testing
• Calibration and compensation
• Environmental, long-term and automated testing
• Validation, failure analysis and comparative measurements

7. Transfer to Industrial Applications

We support partners in transferring research results and new sensor technologies into industrial applications. By combining technology expertise with application-oriented system development, we support the transition from research prototypes to product-oriented solutions.

This includes:

• Technology transfer and consulting
• Industrialization and exploitation studies
• Further development of research prototypes
• Adaptation of IPMS technologies to customer-specific applications
• Support with technology roadmaps
• Joint development and technology transfer projects