Leibniz Universität Hannover Faculty Faculty of Mechanical Engineering
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Institute of Transport and Automation Technology
 
Institute of Transport and Automation Technology Research Finished projects

Transport Technology

  • Future Conveyor Drive - Monetary and ecological belt conveyor optimisation by means of driven idlers
    Within the framework of this research project, the monetary and ecological optimisation of belt conveyor systems by means of driven idlers is being investigated. With help of a specially developed co-simulation environment, their influence on the operating behaviour and dynamic system stability of belt conveyor systems is analysed. The aim is to develop a selection logic for determining the optimised use of driven idlers for industry.
    Led by: Carsten Schmidt, M. Sc.
    Year: 2022
    Funding: AIF
    Duration: 01.08.2022 – 31.07.2024

Automation Technology

  • Mittelstand 4.0 competence center Hannover
    The “Mit uns digital! Das Zentrum für Niedersachsen und Bremen” is the first of eleven centers that are currently being developed throughout Germany to support medium-sized enterprises and craftsmen’s businesses in their digital transformation with well-prepared information, examples and qualification.
    Year: 2017
    Funding: Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy
    Duration: 12/15–11/18
  • PhoenixD - Electrical integration of optical networks
    Implementing optical precision systems quickly and cost-effectively using additive manufacturing: This is the vision of PhoenixD. In this subproject, research is conducted on the production of planar optical network structures. The optical coupling of the light sources to the optical waveguide, which is printed or dispensed, for example, is one of the research questions to be solved. Here, precise mounting and alignment to the end face of the waveguide is of enormous importance.
    Led by: Birger Reitz
    Year: 2019
    Duration: 01/2019 - 06/2023
  • DIGITRUBBER - Data mining and AI for optimized cross-process control
    As part of the collaborative project "Digital Rubber Processing - Using Extrusion as an Example" (DIGITRUBBER), an online characterization of the processed rubber compound is being developed by combining new measurement technology approaches, classical modeling and machine learning. This is intended to ensure production at optimum quality while reducing waste.
    Led by: M. Sc. Sebastian Leineweber
    Year: 2021
    Funding: BMBF
    Duration: 04/2021 – 03/2024

Optronics

  • OPTAVER – Research group optical assembly and connection technology for optical bus systems
    The research focus of the sub-project TP1 of the research group OPTAVER is the conditioning of flexible substrates for the application of optical waveguides.
    Year: 2015
    Funding: DFG
    Duration: 2015-2021
  • PhoenixD - Flexographic printing of optical networks
    The PhoenixD research vision is to implement precision optical systems resource and cost-effectively by using additive manufacturing technology. For this purpose, researchers from mechanical engineering, physics, electrical engineering, computer science and chemistry intend to work together on the simulation, production and application of optical systems. So far, such systems usually consist of glass-based components tediously assembled in small batches, often even by hand. Experts from the various disciplines will aim to work together on a digitized production system that can realize individualized products. In this subproject, the production of planar optical network structures is being researched. For this purpose, a classic printing processes, the flexo printing, is used to enable a cost-effective production. Flexographic printing is a high-pressure process which is usually used for the printing of packaging. A printing plate that is clamped onto a cylinder works similarly to a stamp. The projecting structures, which were structured according to the desired print motif, are first moistened with paint. The subsequent rolling then leaves the desired coating with lacquer on the substrate. The possibility of manufacturing electronic circuits by means of printing has recently been examined. In this sub-project, flexographic printing is now used to also explore the realization of optical functions. Flexographic printing provides the advantage that the process has a very large throughput (up to 15,000 sheets per hour) and thus very low cost per sheet can be realized. Furthermore, flexographic printing machines are also available all over the world in large quantities, so that a proven production process is industrially feasible. Funded by: the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG, German Research Foundation) under Germany’s Excellence Strategy within the Cluster of Excellence PhoenixD (EXC 2122, Project ID 390833453)
    Led by: Keno Pflieger
    Year: 2019
    Duration: 01/2019 - 06/2023
  • OptiK-Net
    The BMBF project OptiK-Net comprises the possibility of integrating flexible optical conductor structures into the manufacturing process of conventional printed circuit boards in an application- and industry-oriented manner. Optical waveguides in electronic structures are considered difficult to implement in industry, but offer advantages and design possibilities over printed circuit boards with electrical conductor paths. In particular, their high bandwidth and low sensitivity to interference allow new solutions in communication networks. In the OptiK-Net project, obstacles are addressed to enable innovative industrial applications by implementing an exemplary process chain for the manufacture of an optoelectronic rigid-flex printed circuit boards. Within this process chain, two new approaches will be pursued: direct printing of optical waveguides and their direct integration into electrical circuit boards. For the direct printing of optical waveguides, flexographic printing, gravure printing and screen printing are considered as conventional printing processes. These processes enable a high output of similar waveguide structures, so that they can be evaluated with regard to their quality and capability as an industrial process. By integrating them into a rigid-flex composite, the communication of decoupled electrical circuits can be realized.
    Led by: M. Sc. Andreas Evertz
    Year: 2019
    Funding: BMBF
    Duration: 10/19 - 09/22
    © ITA
  • 3D-multi layer prints of Mechatronic Integrated Devices
    In the 3D-MLD project, additive manufacturing for the generative production of multilayer circuits on spatial components is investigated. The novel approach is based on an alternating coating of the component surface with functional inks and local laser processing. Besides the laser sintering of conductor paths, laser ablation of the insulating coating enables the generation of vertical interconnect accesses in between the layers.
    Led by: Ejvind Olsen
    Year: 2021
    Funding: BMWi
    Duration: 04/2021 – 03/2023
  • 3D-MosquitOprint
    3D-MosquitOprint researches the integration of optically transparent waveguides in cavities on three-dimensional circuit carriers. The manufacturing process is based on the Mosquito method, in which a light-conducting core is dispensed into a liquid cladding polymer. Afterwards, the structure is cured by UV light. For use as electro-optical hybrid components, there are also investigations into efficient coupling between manufactured waveguides and diodes. For this purpose, the end surfaces are prepared and assembled with diodes.
    Led by: M. Sc. Laura Fütterer
    Year: 2022
    Funding: AiF (IGF)
    Duration: 07/22 – 06/24

Production in Space

  • Setup of an active drop tower
    As part of the establishment of the Hannover Institute of Technology (HITec), an active drop tower, the Einstein-Elevator is being set up by the Institute of Transport and Automation Technology (ITA). The design, development and construction of the facility are being carried out in collaboration with the QUEST Leibniz Research School (QUEST-LFS) and the Institute of Quantum Optics (IQ). The aim is to be able to carry out experiments under conditions of microgravity, but also under different partial gravity conditions such as those on the Moon or Mars.
    Led by: Dipl.-Ing. Christoph Lotz
    Year: 2011
    Funding: German Research Foundation (DFG) and Lower Saxony state gouvernment
    Duration: since 10/2011
  • Cold Plasma in ZeroG
    The height dependence of the plasma conditions and the height dependence of the dynamics of charged microparticles inserted into the plasma are to be investigated in the Einstein-Elevator in a plasma chamber. To this end, the movements of the microparticles during the transition from 1 g to 0 g in the Einstein-Elevator are to be analyzed.
    Led by: Dr.-Ing. Christoph Lotz
    Year: 2019
    Funding: German Aerospace Center (DLR)
  • Experiment carrier for the Einstein-Elevator
    An essential Component of the Einstein Elevator at the Hannover Institute of Technology (HITec) is an experiment carrier, that is used inside the Einstein Elevators gondola. In collaboration with the German Aerospace Center (DLR), the Institute for Transport and Automation Technology is developing a low-vibration carrier. The aim is to use the system to carry out various experiments under microgravity.
    Led by: M. Sc. Richard Sperling
    Year: 2020
    Funding: DLR-SI
    Duration: 08.2020-07.2023
  • Interferometry with entangled atoms in space
    In this project, the entanglement of atoms in microgravity is measured using a robust and compact atomic sensor. The main goal is to demonstrate interferometric sensitivity beyond the standard quantum limit in microgravity.
    Led by: M. Sc. Alexander Heidt
    Year: 2021
    Funding: Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt e. V. (DLR)
    Duration: 01.09.2021 - 31.12.2024
  • Laser-based additive manufacturing of metal parts from powder in microgravity
    The aim of this research project is the development of a laser-based additive manufacturing process for the production of metal parts from powder in microgravity. The approach is based on the "Laser Metal Deposition" (LMD) process known for earth gravity.
    Led by: M. Sc. Marvin Raupert
    Year: 2021
    Funding: DFG
    Duration: 07.2021 - 06.2024
  • Dark Energy Search with Atom Interferometry in the Einstein-Elevator
    The collaboration DESIRE uses the free-fall simulator Einstein-Elevator for dark energy search with atom interferometry. For this purpose the apparatus MAIUS-A will be reconstructed with a specialized test mass and afterwards operated in microgravity.
    Led by: M. Sc. Alexander Heidt
    Year: 2021
    Funding: German Aerospace Center (DLR)
    Duration: 01.04.2021 - 31.03.2024
  • Hannover Center for Microgravity Research
    The focus of the DFG-funded research center "Hannover Center for Microgravity Research" is the establishment of an administrative service and management structure for the Einstein-Elevator. This should enable effective use of the Einstein-Elevator, also for external scientists.
    Led by: Dr.-Ing. Christoph Lotz
    Year: 2022
    Funding: DFG
    Duration: 01.01.2022 - 31.12.2024
  • Levitated Magnets for Quantum Metrology
    This project aims at a systematic investigation of sensors based on levitated micromagnets, which allow to measure ultra-low torques and magnetic fields, demonstrating an unprecedented energy resolution.
    Led by: M. Sc. Alexander Heidt
    Year: 2022
    Funding: QuantERA Project of the EU (DFG)
    Duration: 01.01.2022 - 31.12.2024
  • Activity of comets under partial gravity
    Cometary activity, which in this case refers to the ejection of dust from the surface, can be simulated in the laboratory, but more than a thousand times Earth's gravity overrides the gravity prevailing on comets. With the help of the Einstein-Elevator it will be possible to perform experiments under comet-like conditions.
    Led by: M. Sc. Emre Tahtali
    Year: 2022
    Funding: German Aerospace Center (DLR)
    Duration: 01.08.2022 bis 31.07.2025
  • Ultrasonic levitation as a handling tool for ISM processes
    The joint project Lev4ISM pursues the development of an innovative, resource-saving manufacturing process for In-Space Manufacturing (ISM), which aims to enable the substrate-free production of components in microgravity. By using acoustic levitation and implementing coupled simulations, the precise handling of particles and components in microgravity will be researched to create long-term solutions for sustainable and flexible space missions.
    Led by: M. Sc. Jan Raffel
    Year: 2023
    Funding: German Aerospace Center (DLR)
    Duration: 01.09.2023 - 31.08.2025

Industry 4.0

  • SFB 653 - L2: Opto electronic integration of HF communication system for gentelligent components
    The aim of the sub-project is to integrate the entire communication electronics (high frequency module, microcontroller and memory) in the interior of a workpiece.
    Year: 2011
    Funding: DFG
    Duration: 07/2005 - 06/2017
  • SFB 653 – K1: Dispensed fibers for component-inherent energy transmission and optical signal coupling
    The research focus is on the development of a flexible assembly and connection technology for the integration of electronic and optical components in metallic components.
    Year: 2011
    Funding: DFG
    Duration: 07/2005 - 06/2017
  • Networked, cognitive production systems (netkoPs)
    Intelligent networking in production – a contribution to the future project Industry 4.0
    Year: 2013
    Funding: BMBF
    Duration: 11/2013 - 01/2017
  • TRR 123 PlanOS – A05 Optodic bonding of electro-optically integrated circuits on film substrates
    If one imagines a film as a sensor network with fully integrated optical functionalities for collecting various physical values, e.g. temperature, pressure and humidity, then light sources and detectors have to be integrated in the film and also have to be connected to the outside world. In this project, the issue of how the light sources and detectors can be incorporated into the film or be contacted with it are studied. To do so, adhesives that cure using UV light and eutectic bonding are used, where metal layers are bonded together at low temperatures.
    Year: 2013
    Funding: DFG - Transregio 123
    Duration: 01/2013 - 12/2017
  • TRR 123 PlanOS – B01 Offset and inkjet printing of multimode waveguides
    How can optical waveguides be printed? Professors and young researchers from Freiburg and Hanover are trying to answer this question. The sub-project B01 has the task of producing multimodal waveguides for high light output with a width of ten to several hundred microns. The advantages of two printing procedures are used to do so: flexographic printing with high throughput and low cost, and inkjet printing with a large variability and high resolution.
    Year: 2013
    Funding: DFG - Transregio 123
    Duration: 01/2013 - 12/2017
  • OPTAVER – Research group optical assembly and connection technology for optical bus systems
    The research focus of the sub-project TP1 of the research group OPTAVER is the conditioning of flexible substrates for the application of optical waveguides.
    Year: 2015
    Funding: DFG
    Duration: 2015-2021
  • LaPOF – Laser active polymer optic fibers
    The LaPOF project aims to research technological foundations for innovative laser-active polymer optical fibers as well as their production.
    Year: 2016
    Funding: European Regional Development Fund (ERDF)
    Duration: 12/2016–11/2019

Additive Manufacturing

  • 3D-CopperPrint
    3D-CopperPrint investigates the use of additive manufacturing (3D printing) for the generation of copper interconnects on adaptive spatial circuit carriers. This process can be used to fabricate hybrid electro-mechanical components as an alternative to existing methods. The approach is based on the application of copper-filled coatings on the surface of three-dimensional objects and the subsequent photothermal laser sintering of the paths.
    Team: Ejvind Olsen
    Year: 2018
    Funding: BMWi, AiF (IGF)
    Duration: 10/2018 – 06/2020

Optical Technologies

  • HYMNOS – Hybrid Numerical Optical Simulation
    Numerical methods for the calculation of light distributions in optical media can profit significantly from current trends in computer technology. The aim of this project is therefore the combination of different modeling approaches on different temporal and spatial scales. For this purpose, different aspects from interdisciplinary subject areas in physics and engineering sciences are investigated using models.
    Year: 2015
    Funding: Lower Saxony
    Duration: 10/2015 – 09/2018
  • PhoenixD - Flexographic printing of optical networks
    The PhoenixD research vision is to implement precision optical systems resource and cost-effectively by using additive manufacturing technology. For this purpose, researchers from mechanical engineering, physics, electrical engineering, computer science and chemistry intend to work together on the simulation, production and application of optical systems. So far, such systems usually consist of glass-based components tediously assembled in small batches, often even by hand. Experts from the various disciplines will aim to work together on a digitized production system that can realize individualized products. In this subproject, the production of planar optical network structures is being researched. For this purpose, a classic printing processes, the flexo printing, is used to enable a cost-effective production. Flexographic printing is a high-pressure process which is usually used for the printing of packaging. A printing plate that is clamped onto a cylinder works similarly to a stamp. The projecting structures, which were structured according to the desired print motif, are first moistened with paint. The subsequent rolling then leaves the desired coating with lacquer on the substrate. The possibility of manufacturing electronic circuits by means of printing has recently been examined. In this sub-project, flexographic printing is now used to also explore the realization of optical functions. Flexographic printing provides the advantage that the process has a very large throughput (up to 15,000 sheets per hour) and thus very low cost per sheet can be realized. Furthermore, flexographic printing machines are also available all over the world in large quantities, so that a proven production process is industrially feasible. Funded by: the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG, German Research Foundation) under Germany’s Excellence Strategy within the Cluster of Excellence PhoenixD (EXC 2122, Project ID 390833453)
    Led by: Keno Pflieger
    Year: 2019
    Duration: 01/2019 - 06/2023
  • PhoenixD - Electrical integration of optical networks
    Implementing optical precision systems quickly and cost-effectively using additive manufacturing: This is the vision of PhoenixD. In this subproject, research is conducted on the production of planar optical network structures. The optical coupling of the light sources to the optical waveguide, which is printed or dispensed, for example, is one of the research questions to be solved. Here, precise mounting and alignment to the end face of the waveguide is of enormous importance.
    Led by: Birger Reitz
    Year: 2019
    Duration: 01/2019 - 06/2023

[uncategorized]

  • VIPlets – Evidence of the aerodynamic potential of riblets produced by grinding and laser removal in a highly loaded axial compressor
    In order to increase the power density and the efficiency in gas turbines and in particular in aircraft engines, minimizing aerodynamic losses remains one of the main targets. An innovative approach to this is the microstructuring of the overflow surfaces of the blading with riblets known from bionics. These small longitudinal riblets can reduce flow losses in the viscous sublayer of the turbulent boundary layer.
    Year: 2013
    Funding: BMBF – VIP
    Duration: 05/2013-04/2017
  • SFB 1153 – A4 Local adaptation of material properties on forming blanks by weld cladding to produce graded hybrid components
    The sub-project is aimed at the manufacture of novel hybrid components from material combinations. This is where local, load-dependent property profiles are imprinted on the components. In order to achieve this, materials are applied to forming blanks by means of build-up welding. The material quantity and position are crucial for the targeted placement of the materials through forming.
    Year: 2015
    Funding: DFG
    Duration: 07/2015 – 06/2019
  • Grid-supported fiberglass melting coupler for selective transversal mode coupling
    The principle and the manufacture of a novel transversal mode-selective fiber fusion coupler is to be explored in this research project funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG). With selective mode coupling, different modes can be used as individual transmission channels, thus increasing the transmission bandwidth proportionally to the number of used modes. An essential feature of the new coupler is the selective transversal mode coupling by means of optical lattice.
    Year: 2016
    Funding: DFG
    Duration: 03/2016 – 02/2018
  • New drive concept for belt conveyor systems on the basis of directly driven load-bearing rollers
    The aim of this research project is the abolition of the current economic and technical length restrictions for belt conveyor systems in the area of mining and surface mining through the use of propelled load-bearing rollers.
    Year: 2016
    Funding: AIF, IFL
    Duration: 05/2016 – 04/2018
  • Tailored Light – Intelligent photoelectric surface made of light emitting modules
    The progress over the last decades in miniaturizing chips, wireless data transfer technologies and low-power consumption electronic devices has made it possible to design component-integrated autonomous sensors. These networks have a big potential for widespread use in maintenance prediction of manufacturing equipment, in intelligent building management systems and energy saving smart grids.
    Year: 2017
    Funding: Lower Saxony
    Duration: 01/2017 – 01/2020
  • LinTrans-Transfer
    Development of a demonstrator for a directly propelled transport system using a linear motor.
    Year: 2017
    Funding: DFG
    Duration: 04/2017 – 12/2018
  • Automatable method for splice preparation of steel cord conveyor belts by means of beam technology
    The automation of splice preparation of steel cord conveyor belts is currently being researched at the Institute of Transport and Automation Technology (ITA) in collaboration with the Subaqueous Technical School of the Institute of Materials Science (IW). This is to enable the consistent quality of the connection as well as an increase in strength. This reduces operators’ risk of possible downtimes and the associated costs. An increase in strength also enables increased mass flows and therefore increases the productivity of the system.
    Year: 2017
    Funding: AiF, IFL
    Duration: 01/2017 – 12/2018

Last Change: 12.04.24 Print

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