Research Services

Fraunhofer IPK is a research and development institution in the field of production technology. With our distinctive IT competency, we offer system solutions, individual tech­nologies and services for digitally integrated production. We provide comprehensive support to companies from product development, planning and control of machines and systems, including technologies for parts manufacturing, to comprehensive automation and management of factory operations. We also transfer production engineering solutions to areas of application outside industry, such as traffic and safety.

Our service portfolio

Our range of services extends from initial consulting and analyzing potentials to the prototypical implementation of new methods, processes, and technologies. Our range of offerings includes:

Initial analyses

We assess the status quo of process landscapes and individual technologies in your company. Based on this, we carry out potential analyses and financial feasibility calculations for process adjustments and new technologies – making the return on investment immediately visible. In feasibility studies, we evaluate the effort and viability of ideas for technology and process adjustments.

Procedure and process optimization

Through systematic analysis of existing processes, we identify potential for savings in areas such as energy, materials, and time. We increase profitability in a targeted manner through process adjustments, automation, and the use of innovative technologies and processes.

Planning of factories and process chains

One focus of our work is the development, planning, and implementation of efficient manufacturing processes. We support you in developing completely new production process chains and integrate new technologies and process steps into existing process chains.

Developing and implementing procedures, devices and software systems

Where no available solution can achieve the desired effect, we design new ones. Our modern equipment infrastructure enables us to develop tools, clamping systems, and entire machines, as well as IT systems for production.

Developing prototypes

We guide the entire development process from initial idea to physical demonstrator. Thanks to our extensive experience in component development and manufacturing technologies, we develop and manufacture innovative and functional prototypes.

Trainings, seminars and coaching

In our workshops, seminars, and other events, we share the latest technological know-how for your business operations. As part of process and technology development projects, we train your employees in the use of new solutions.

Technology readiness levels

The Technology Readiness Level (TRL) scale uses values between 1 and 9 to provide a classification of how far a new technology has already been developed. In the context of Fraunhofer's research and development activities, it is an important guide to where Fraunhofer development projects start and to what stage of development we accompany technologies.

The degree of maturity to which we develop a technology is determined by your individual requirements. Our developments generally range between Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 4 and 7.