Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology IPT
Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology IPT

Customized machines and automated systems for precision and micro assembly

For the particularly precise assembly of optical and electronic components, we develop plant prototypes and modular systems with Industry 4.0 functionalities.

© Fraunhofer IPT

Integrated quality control

Integrate active alignment into assembly processes to minimize scrap and rework costs.

more info

© Fraunhofer IPT

Automated precision and micro assembly

The mass assembly of microsystems requires automated handling and alignment of the components. With its wealth of experience for industry-ready solutions, Fraunhofer IPT draws on existing components from micro assembly, as well as in-house developments, to efficiently develop solutions for automated assembly.

Automated assembly systems for medium to large quantities

We develop and test prototypes of individual production systems and machine components for the automated assembly of miniaturized laser systems, cameras and optical sensors in medium to large quantities. Our expertise ranges from individual technologies to the development of complete solutions, which we bring to market hand in hand with industrial cooperation partners.

Modular system for precision and micro assembly

To automate assembly, we use a modular micro assembly platform consisting of standard modules and software modules for sensor-based process control and networking within an Industry 4.0 environment. One of these standard modules is the C6 micromanipulator, which we have provided with an expandable user interface and which efficiently supports individual micro assembly systems.

We will be happy to check the feasibility of automation for your assembly tasks and develop the necessary machine components and processes. With our development and sales partners, we create a sustainable solution with the usual service. Machine safety, radiation protection and CE certification are a matter of course for us.

Systems and processes for the assembly of optical and electronic assemblies

We master the assembly processes for optical systems and electronic components like few others: we make systems and modules work for you, achieving the highest precision. To do this, we use algorithms and technologies that get the best out of every component and every assembly step.

Precise assembly with artificial intelligence

To ensure that the assembly result achieves the highest possible precision and components are optimally aligned with each other, we rely on machine learning and AI.

AI in precision assembly
 

Precision assembly from the idea to series production

Before processes and equipment go into series production, we thoroughly test endurance and precision using prototypes.

Prototype production
 

© Fraunhofer IPT

Alignment based on the optical function

Active alignment means maximum precision through the most accurate measurement of the function and quality inspection while still in the production process.

Active alignment

Ultra precise bonding

Adhesives change during curing. To ensure that once aligned, components remain precisely positioned relative to each other, we take this aspect into account as early as the product and process design stage.

Bonding processes

Our range of services for assembly automation

Feasibility studies

How long does the adhesive have to cure? What adhesive shrinkage will my optical system tolerate? What press-in pressure do I need to assemble my component? Together with our customers, we find answers to open questions in order to be able to assemble their systems automatically.

Pre-series assembly

High-performance microsystems require expertise in high-precision assembly and interconnection technology. We offer our customers an existing infrastructure and experience in micro assembly – numerous prototypes have already been created in our clean rooms.

Transfer to series production

Until the acquisition of an own production solution is economically viable, our industrial partners assemble small and medium series as required. Close cooperation ensures a smooth transition to series production.

Individual assembly solutions

Is there no suitable solution for your product on the market? We are happy to take on the task and realize a first prototype in cooperation with you.

Prototyping

Consulting for specifications

Design for assembly, design for costs, design for manufacturing: Often the healthy middle ground is hard to find. We take a holistic view of the product, the process and the production system to efficiently develop a production solution.

Industry working group

Together with our partners, we identify market requirements and seek answers to research questions in the industry working group – become a member of the working group and benefit from the combined know-how of industry and research.