Diagnostics and Sensors

Diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

Applications for bio and health

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and its potentially fatal complication, pulmonary embolism, affect millions of people worldwide and account for a significant percentage of acute hospital admissions. DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in the deep veins, usually in the lower limbs, obstructing blood flow. In approximately 50% of cases, the clot detaches from the vein wall and travels to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism. About 25% of patients who suffer a pulmonary embolism die from it, making it the third most common cardiovascular cause of death globally after stroke and heart attack. Clinical diagnosis of DVT is notoriously unreliable, as up to two-thirds of DVT episodes are asymptomatic, and patients may remain symptom-free even when a pulmonary embolism develops.

Early detection saves lives

Early diagnosis of DVT is crucial, as it can prevent life-threatening complications (pulmonary embolism), reduce the risk of long-term disabilities such as post-thrombotic syndrome and recurrent DVT, improve treatment outcomes, and lower healthcare costs.

Fraunhofer IPMS: Next generation ultrasound

The ThrombUS+ project brings together an interdisciplinary team of experts from industry, technology, social sciences, and clinical research to develop an innovative, portable device for continuous, user-independent monitoring of patients at high risk of thrombosis.

Fraunhofer IPMS, in collaboration with VERMON, is developing the ultrasound transducer array for portable, continuous monitoring of deep vein thrombosis directly on-site. Our focus is on CMUTs (Capacitive Micromachined Ultrasonic Transducers), MEMS-based ultrasound transducers considered the next generation of medical ultrasound sensors.

CMUTs offer several key advantages:

  • Cost-effective large-scale production
  • Miniaturization with a high number of channels
  • Wide bandwidth combined with high sensitivity

These features enable the development of a completely new monitoring system for early diagnosis and therapy support of DVT.

 

Quick diagnosis of middle-ear infections using ultrasound

Applications for bio & health

© Fraunhofer IPMS
Wafer with CMUT chips

Middle ear infections are often treated with antibiotics, especially in babies and young children. However, current medical diagnostic devices for this condition are often outdated, leading to subjective and unreliable results. Diagnostic error rates average around 50%, particularly in distinguishing between bacterial and viral infections. As a result, many children are unnecessarily prescribed antibiotics, contributing to the growing global problem of antibiotic resistance.

Innovative Ultrasound Transducer from Fraunhofer IPMS

Fraunhofer IPMS has developed a novel ultrasound transducer that addresses this challenge: the air-coupled ultrasound technology enables accurate and rapid diagnosis of middle ear infections. Using an otoscope, physicians can analyze the area behind the eardrum within seconds to determine whether the middle ear contains air or fluid. The fluid can be characterized, allowing a clear differentiation of various stages of the infection and enabling targeted treatment.

Advantages of CMUT Technology

The ultrasound transducer is based on innovative CMUT technology (capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducer), manufactured using specialized MEMS processes on silicon wafers at Fraunhofer IPMS. Key benefits include:

  • Low power consumption
  • Cost-effective mass production
  • Miniaturization, enabling a very compact design
  • Compared to conventional piezoelectric ultrasound transducers, CMUTs are significantly smaller and can be optimally integrated into otoscopes

This combination of precision, efficiency, and miniaturization makes the CMUT ultrasound transducer a promising solution for modern middle ear diagnostics.

 

Marker-free detection with photonic biosensors

Applications for bio and health

Label-free detection methods, which enable molecular characterization without additional reagents, hold great potential for development. They allow for easy-to-use, rapid diagnostic tools that can be operated outside of laboratory settings, making them accessible to non-specialist users as well.

Innovative Solutions for Simple and Precise Diagnostics

Fraunhofer IPMS develops advanced photonic biosensors based on silicon nitride microring resonators fabricated with silicon technology. These sensors provide selective detection of biomarkers and microbial substances, offering a promising approach for early disease diagnosis.

In collaboration with Fraunhofer IZI, Fraunhofer IPMS is developing a highly sensitive integrated photonic biosensor platform that aims to set new standards in diagnostic performance.

 

Breath analysis

Applications for bio and health

Breath analysis offers great potential for the early detection of diseases in the medical field. Traces of specific gases in exhaled breath, particularly volatile organic compounds (VOCs), can serve as biomarkers for various conditions such as cancer. Precise spectroscopic analysis of breath enables reliable detection of these gases, supporting early diagnosis and timely therapies.

Advanced breath analysis for medical diagnostics with MEMS ion mobility spectrometers

Fraunhofer IPMS develops innovative, modular sensor solutions specifically tailored for medical applications. At the core is a MEMS-based Ion Mobility Spectrometer (IMS) built on a silicon chip, integrating both an ion filter and an ion detector. This system can directly detect ionizable substances in very low concentrations in breath, without requiring complex sample preparation.

Advantages of Fraunhofer IPMS MEMS Technology

The combination of advanced FAIMS (Field Asymmetric Ion Mobility Spectrometry) filtering technology and microtechnological miniaturization enables:

  • Cost-effective mass production of ion mobility spectrometer chips
  • Miniaturization and compact design for mobile and easy-to-handle devices
  • Fast and precise on-site (point-of-care) measurements, e.g., in clinics or medical practices
  • Reduced need for complex sample preparation and laboratory equipment
  • Support for the development of non-invasive, user-friendly diagnostic methods
  • Access to high-volume applications through excellent scalability

This makes non-invasive, user-friendly, and precise breath diagnostics feasible, supporting early intervention in diseases and improving treatment outcomes.

 

Components and Modules for Improved Optical Point-of-Care Diagnostics (KODIAK)

Applications for bio and health

Lab-on-Chip (LOC) diagnostics is now a modern standard in various laboratory testing procedures. It enables automated and precise processing as well as evaluation of medical samples. Diagnostic results can thus be provided more cost-effectively, faster, and earlier than with conventional laboratory analyses. However, for some applications, suitable Lab-on-Chip systems do not yet exist. Therefore, Fraunhofer IPMS is developing innovative components and modules together with partners specifically for LOC diagnostics of cytokine release syndrome (CRS).

Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS): Causes, Symptoms, and Risks

Cytokine release syndrome (CRS) occurs in numerous diseases and therapies, such as immunotherapy, sepsis, or infectious diseases like COVID-19. During this immune reaction, the body produces increased levels of cytokines that activate additional immune cells, leading to an excessive immune response. Unlike typical immune reactions, this process continuously intensifies and can become life-threatening. Rapid diagnosis and treatment of CRS are therefore critical for patient care.

Highly Sensitive Diagnostics with Microfluidic Chips

Effective CRS diagnostics require fast and highly sensitive detection of various blood biomarkers indicative of inflammatory reactions. This is achieved through fluorescence- or luminescence-based assays on microfluidic Lab-on-Chip systems. Unlike conventional invasive blood tests, this approach enables precise, rapid, and early diagnosis. Continuous online monitoring to detect CRS immediately is particularly desirable.

The KODIAK consortium is developing advanced biological assays combined with electronic, optical, and fluidic components to create a fully integrated Lab-on-Chip system for CRS diagnostics. Fraunhofer IPMS contributes the optical design for highly sensitive optical detection. The goal is to improve early detection of severe disease courses, utilize clinical resources more efficiently, and sustainably enhance medical care for patients.

Cell-based therapeutics (MIC-PreCell)

Applications for bio and health

Cell-based therapies are usually tailored to the individual needs of each patient. Due to the complex and time-consuming production processes, they are still very costly. For patients in critical health conditions, timely production can be vital.

Advanced Quality Control with Ion Mobility Spectrometry 

The project MIC-PreCell focuses on developing modern methods of integrated quality assurance for cell therapy manufacturing. These approaches aim to accelerate production and detect errors at an early stage, thereby improving the safety and efficiency of cell-based therapeutics.

As part of the project, Fraunhofer IPMS is developing a state-of-the-art Ion Mobility Spectrometer (IMS) designed to analyze volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released by cell cultures into the surrounding air. This allows for precise, non-invasive, and early monitoring of the cellular environment.

Additional innovative methods include optomechanical profiling, which enables label-free, real-time analysis of the mechanical properties of cells. Furthermore, specialized micromanipulation tools for cells, clusters, and organoids provide detailed real-time insights into the condition of therapeutic cell products.

By combining these advanced technologies, MIC-PreCell paves the way for faster, more precise, and more reliable quality control in the production of cell-based therapies.

Microdisplays

Applications in medical technology

Smart glasses offer tremendous potential for medical technology, especially in minimally invasive surgery or complex procedures. Surgeons and physicians can view X-rays, CT scans, or real-time endoscopic images directly within their field of vision—without looking away from the patient. This allows for hands-free operation while keeping all critical information accessible, significantly enhancing surgical efficiency and patient safety.

Technological Requirements for Medical Smart Glasses

To meet clinical needs, medical AR glasses must offer:

  • ultra-high-resolution microdisplays
  • flexible substrates for lightweight, ergonomic designs
  • strong readability in bright environments
  • high contrast and color fidelity
  • intuitive gesture or eye-tracking controls
  • scratch-resistant and disinfectant-safe surfaces

Fraunhofer IPMS develops precisely these microdisplays, tailored for medical wearables and diagnostic tools.

Miniaturized Solutions for Mobile Medical Devices

Beyond pure visualization, interactive content control is becoming key. Fraunhofer IPMS is working on bidirectional microdisplays that combine display and image sensor on a single chip. This enables not only visual output but also eye movement tracking, allowing intelligent, hands-free control - a major step forward for smart surgical assistance systems.

Thanks to ultra-low-power components, these systems are ideal for portable medical devices used directly in hospitals, operating rooms, or emergency response environments.


Optical oxygen sensors for versatile gas analysis

Applications for bio and health

Measuring oxygen concentration precisely and flexibly is critical across industries such as medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and industrial process control. Fraunhofer IPMS has developed an advanced optical sensor platform that combines OLED-based excitation with CMOS-integrated photodiode arrays for real-time gas sensing, including oxygen detection.

How the Sensor Works

The sensor measures oxygen levels using either a custom-developed sensor layer or commercial sensor spots. A blue OLED excites a phosphorescent dye, and the emitted signal is captured by photodiodes integrated into the CMOS backplane. The oxygen concentration is calculated based on the decay time of the phosphorescence, following a predefined calibration curve.

Integrated organic-CMOS sensor innovation

Fraunhofer IPMS combines decades of expertise in organic electronics, CMOS chip design, and sensor system integration to create a platform suitable for multiple measurement tasks. The innovation lies in the compact integration of optical components directly on the sensor chip.

The emission wavelength of the OLEDs is tunable across visible and near-infrared ranges, enabling the excitation of various dyes. The integrated color filters are optimized based on the spectral properties of the dye and help isolate the response signal for precise measurement.

Benefits of Fraunhofer IPMS technology

Fraunhofer IPMS’s modular sensor architecture provides:

  • Customizable measurement configurations
  • High compatibility with off-the-shelf dyes and materials
  • Miniaturized design for embedded systems
  • Cost efficiency through CMOS-based manufacturing

MEMS-based microscanners for advanced Mmdical applications

Applications for bio and health

© Fraunhofer IPMS
Digitize X-Ray dental film using MEMS scanning.

Fraunhofer IPMS is pioneering the development of MEMS-based micro scanners for a wide range of medical imaging and diagnostic applications. These compact, high-precision components are enabling new levels of performance and miniaturization across various healthcare technologies. This makes them ideally suited for medical applications.

Medical imaging with microscanners

Micro scanners developed by Fraunhofer IPMS are used in:

  • Medical endoscopy for high-resolution internal imaging
  • Confocal and fluorescence microscopy
  • Spectroscopy applications in life sciences
  • Ophthalmological diagnostics and treatments

One notable innovation is the institute’s development of double-resonant MEMS scanners, which serve as the core technology in a compact X-ray film scanner used in digital dentistry. This breakthrough enables efficient digitization of dental radiographs with enhanced clarity and minimal hardware footprint.

Industry collaborations

Fraunhofer IPMS collaborates closely with medical device manufacturers to bring MEMS micro scanners into clinical practice:

  • Ophthalmology: In partnership with Norlase, Fraunhofer IPMS has contributed to the development of laser scanners used in the treatment of retinal diseases and glaucoma. The use of MEMS scanners allows for significant system miniaturization and improved resolution, enhancing patient outcomes and device portability.
  • Eye Diagnostics: For the start-up Envision Diagnostics, Fraunhofer IPMS is developing micro scanners for a next-generation automated eye examination system. The system captures, processes, and displays all relevant visual parameters, supporting faster and more accurate diagnostics. This technology provides physicians with comprehensive, real-time data to make more informed clinical decisions.

Enabling the Future of Medical Diagnostics

With extensive experience in MEMS design, optical systems, and medical device integration, Fraunhofer IPMS is accelerating the development of compact, high-performance diagnostic tools. Their micro scanner technologies offer:

  • High-resolution imaging in miniaturized form factors
  • Compatibility with various optical measurement methods
  • Scalable integration for both research and commercial devices
  • Improved reliability and clinical usability

By delivering customizable and application-specific MEMS solutions, Fraunhofer IPMS is helping shape the future of precision diagnostics, minimally invasive imaging, and smart ophthalmic systems.

Development of a portable LYNX LASER ophthalmoscope with pattern scanning

Applications for bio and health

The Eurostars project UltraLASE is advancing the development of the LYNX Ophthalmokop, a compact, pattern-scanning laser system for the treatment of retinal diseases such as diabetic retinopathy. Unlike traditional single-spot laser systems, LYNX enables multi-spot laser therapy, offering several clinical advantages, including:

  • Improved patient comfort
  • Shorter treatment durations
  • Increased patient throughput

This innovation addresses the growing global demand for ophthalmic care, driven by aging populations and the rising prevalence of diabetes. The LYNX system helps meet this demand by making efficient retinal laser therapy more accessible and scalable.

A breakthrough in ophthalmic laser treatment

Developed by Norlase, a Danish medical technology company, LYNX introduces a new category of ophthalmic laser systems. Its highly portable form factor and scanning capabilities allow for treatment of patient groups that were previously difficult to reach, including:

  • Bedridden patients
  • Premature infants and newborns
  • Patients in mobile care settings and medical missions

Currently, no comparable system is available on the market, making LYNX a unique and timely solution in retinal healthcare.

MEMS-enabled miniaturization

At the core of the LYNX device is a miniaturized 2D MEMS scanner mirror module, developed within the UltraLASE project. The module is designed to meet stringent size and performance requirements:

  • Scanning area: 8° x 8°
  • Laser wavelength: 519 nm
  • Average laser power: 1.5 W
  • Module volume: less than 4 cm³
  • Maximum positioning time: 3 milliseconds

This ultra-compact module will be integrated into the LYNX laser coagulation system and enables high-precision multi-spot treatment in a form factor suitable for both clinical and field use.

Enabling the future of retinal care

By combining MEMS-based optical scanning, portable laser hardware, and a design optimized for underserved settings, the LYNX system represents a significant advancement in retinal laser treatment. It supports more efficient procedures, improves access to care, and expands the possibilities for mobile and remote ophthalmic services.