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Many laser-based production processes require strict safety measures to protect machine operators from radiation and harmful emissions. However, these measures make process monitoring more difficult. Together with project partners, the Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology IPT in Aachen has developed a digital solution that brings more safety, transparency and controllability to manufacturing: In its virtual reality environment, processed sensor data is displayed in near real time. The additive manufacturing process of laser metal deposition with wire (LMD-w) served as a model process.

Digitalization is a decisive competitive factor for industry - artificial intelligence (AI), digital twins and cyber security are considered the key technologies of the future. But how can manufacturing companies use these technologies specifically and effectively to make processes more efficient, sustainable and secure? The latest report from the International Center for Networked, Adaptive Production (ICNAP) provides practical answers: from zero-trust architectures and the integration of AI to the use of digital twins, the report offers solutions for Industry 4.0. It also presents an outlook on the future of autonomous production and highlights approaches for the so-called "dark factory" – a fully automated production facility.

At Formnext 2024, the Fraunhofer Group for Production will present its comprehensive range of solutions for post-processing additively manufactured parts. Under the title "Additive Manufacturing - Finishing and Refinement Solutions", the Fraunhofer Institutes will be demonstrating numerous processes for surface finishing and functionalization. A haptic exhibit in the form of a turtle will illustrate these technologies and bring them to life for visitors.

The International Center for Networked, Adaptive Production (ICNAP) of the three Aachen-based Fraunhofer Institutes will be presenting an AI-supported analysis system for visual quality control at the SPS trade fair in Nuremberg from November 12 to 14, 2024. In hall 6, booth 6-357, ICNAP will be demonstrating how deep learning can be used to check weld seams on battery cell mod-ules for defects in real time.

The Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology IPT in Aachen, Germany, has developed a process that reduces CO2 emissions in glass and optics production by up to 90 percent. The focus is on conducting a life cycle assessment (LCA), which systematically records the energy requirements and CO2 emissions of the manufacturing processes. This data is used to develop and implement optimization potential. Fraunhofer IPT is the only research institute in Europe to offer comprehensive analyses and research on the subject of LCA in optics production.

At the Hannover Messe from April 22 to 26, the Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology IPT will present the diverse applications of laser technologies in production at two booths: An "animal" exhibit at the joint Fraunhofer booth will show how the com-bination of additive and subtractive processes makes production more efficient and products of higher quality. In the "Bioeconomy Showcase", the Bio4MatPro competence center will present the "Heart 2.0" research project. In this project, Fraunhofer IPT and its partners have developed complex micro- and nanostructures to prevent dangerous blood clots. Lasers were used to apply these structures to the inside of artificial hearts.