High-performance electronics provide the basis for future-oriented and safe technologies. Using innovative methods and processes, experts from European science and industry have subscribed to increase the reliability of machines and systems and improve manufacturing processes in microelectronics. "In iRel 4.0, we don't leave out any component. Wafer, chip, package or user system are all being optimized. As a result, production errors in the manufacturing process are reduced and the quality and lifetime of products are increased," emphasizes Prof. Peter Hartmann, head of Fraunhofer AZOM and professor at the Faculty of Physical Engineering/Computer Science WHZ.
The research institutions contribute expertise in laser-based surface technology (WHZ), development of process-accompanying measurement technology (AZOM), and control electronics and software development (FTZ). To this end, the scientific institutions have 1.6 million euros at their disposal. The project partners are jointly developing a complex system to provide new production technology. It will focus in particular on improving the quality, reliability and safety of subsequent products. Independent of any restrictions, the local consortium has already started the intensive cooperation and is digitally connected to the overall consortium.
WHZ students benefit from iRel 4.0
"The alliance of the research institutions with various European industrial partners such as Infineon Technologies Dresden and Austria as well as LEC Eibenstock bridges the gap between science, large companies and medium-sized businesses. As a result, the project is also particularly important for the practical and applied training of our students. In future, they will be able to contribute to iRel 4.0 through theses or as student assistants," explains Prof. Hartmann.
About the Intelligent Reliability 4.0 (iRel 4.0) project
The collaborative project aims to secure around 25,000 highly qualified jobs across Europe through strong partnerships and investment in innovation. The European Union is funding iRel 4.0 within the ECSEL program (Electronic Components and Systems for European Leadership). Funding from Germany is provided by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research and from the two German states of Saxony and Thuringia. The project will run for three years and is scheduled to end in April 2023. Coordinated by Infineon Technologies AG, 75 scientific and industrial partners from thirteen countries are pooling their forces.
Further information on the project and the project partners is available at: https://www.irel40.eu
About Fraunhofer AZOM
In close cooperation with Westsächsische Hochschule Zwickau University of Applied Science (WHZ), Fraunhofer Application Center for Optical Metrology and Surface Technologies AZOM enhances the range of services offered by the Fraunhofer Institute for Material and Beam Technology IWS in Dresden and sustainably strengthens Zwickau as a research location. The application center provides the interface between the disciplines of medical technology, automotive engineering, mechanical engineering and the semiconductor industry.
Further information: s.fhg.de/azom
About Westsächsische Hochschule Zwickau (WHZ) University of Applied Sciences Zwickau
WHZ focuses on technology, economy and life quality. Following the mission statement "University for Mobility", WHZ organizes its numerous research activities into five research profile lines: Automotive and Production, Energy and Infrastructure, Cyber Physical Systems and Digitalization, Health and Medical Technology, Sustainability and Neo-Ecology.
Further information: www.fh-zwickau.de
About Research and Transfer Center (FTZ)
The FTZ e.V. was founded on November 14, 1994. The association is closely linked to the WHZ through a cooperation agreement. The association represents an interface between industry and university. Its aim is to promote cooperation with industry, business and local authorities in the region and to support the WHZ in the fields of research and development, knowledge transfer and practice-oriented teaching.
Further information: www.ftz-zwickau.de
Fraunhofer Institute for Material and Beam Technology IWS
