AI and machine learning

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An essential feature of Industry 4.0 is the end-to-end networking of all factory components and complete value chains with sensors, embedded systems, and communication technology. As a result, large amounts of data are generated from planning the products and production equipment to be manufactured through to their final use. This data is the basis for artificial intelligence (AI). Industrial production is one of the most important fields of application.

Knowledge from experience

Machine learning is the key technology for cognitive systems based on AI and is used in production processes to generate knowledge from experience. Learning algorithms develop a complex model from sample data that is as representative as possible, which can then be applied to new and unknown data of the same type. Whenever processes are too complex to describe analytically but sufficient sample data, such as sensor data or images, is available, machine learning is a good option.

Fields of research:

  • Edge AI
  • AI-supported process optimization
  • Predictive maintenance and quality assurance
  • Human-robot collaboration and interaction

Project examples

Machine learning for predictive maintenance of transmission oils

In the Smart Gear project, researchers at Fraunhofer EMFT are developing solutions to detect a drop in the performance of gear oils with the help of sensor technology and machine learning methods and to predict when the oil needs to be changed.

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Artificial intelligence in the sensor node @ Fraunhofer EMFT

As a result of ongoing digitalization, the volume of sensor data being collected and analyzed is growing rapidly. In order to transfer the huge volumes of data quickly and securely, researchers at Fraunhofer EMFT are focusing on equipping sensors and actuators with artificial intelligence (AI). 

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diVIBES - Digital 3D broadband vibration sensors for improved machine monitoring through machine learning with Fraunhofer ENAS

In the project diVIBES a system for predictive condition monitoring based on the detection of vibrations is developed. Innovations along the entire information chain will make a significant contribution to the improvement of predictive condition monitoring and process optimization.

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AI-supported development of electronic systems for future vehicle generations in the progressivKI project with Fraunhofer ENAS

In the project progressivKI, eighteen top-class partners are working together in a consortium under the coordination of Robert Bosch Multimedia Car GmbH in Hildesheim and with project management support by edacentrum.

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Integrable spectral sensors in multireactor technology - interpretation of results using neural networks @ Fraunhofer ENAS

As part of a research project, Fraunhofer ENAS integrated a miniaturized spectrometer module into the system architecture of a multi-reactor system, qualifying it for various hydrogenation reactions.

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Implementation of a novel magnetic field-based positioning method using AI @ Fraunhofer ENAS

As part of the Sens-o-Spheres project, a novel magnetic field-based method was developed remedying these disadvantages and achieving a local resolution of about a few centimeters. 

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Applied Machine Learning Research Group @ Fraunhofer HHI

The Applied Machine Learning group is developing and researching novel methods across different directions such as deep learning, supervised and unsupervised learning, multimodality, and hybrid models. 

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KICK - Artificial intelligence for campus communication with Fraunhofer HHI

The goal of KICK is to significantly simplify and improve the operation of future 5G campus networks by using AI methods. The focus here is on Industry 4.0 environments with their high reliability and latency requirements.

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Research focus machine learning @ Fraunhofer IIS

Fraunhofer IIS researchers are proficient in classical methods of "machine learning" and image analysis as well as in the nowadays often superior methods of "deep learning" and have many years of experience in the development of applications for computer-assisted diagnosis support.

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Implementation and integration of machine learning on embedded devices

Fraunhofer IIS covers both microcontroller-based machine learning and the use of embedded chips with deep learning accelerators. For a given problem, researchers analyze the system requirements and determine the appropriate algorithms and the best hardware options.

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Machine learning for hand tools @ Fraunhofer IIS

Manual processes also take place in the production chain of Industry 4.0. To integrate these processes, experts in localization, networking, and machine learning (ML) have developed an embedded intelligent sensor module for hand tools that can be integrated into existing production IT infrastructures.

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Spare parts forecasting with machine learning @ Fraunhofer IIS-SCS

The Analytics department of the Supply Chain Services working group at Fraunhofer IIS has developed a long-term forecasting tool for the all-time demand for spare parts based on machine learning. Companies can now estimate their spare parts inventories more accurately, use storage space more efficiently and, last but not least, reduce overstocking, understocking and scrapping costs.

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Data analytics: application of AI for data-supported system optimization @ Fraunhofer IISB

Important for viable solutions in the dynamic field of data analytics and AI is a close collaboration with relevant teams and institutions, e.g. the Modeling and Artificial Intelligence department of IISB or the ADA Lovelace Center, of which Fraunhofer IISB is a founding member.

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Modeling and artificial intelligence @ Fraunhofer IISB

Fraunhofer IISB works on the development and application of physical models, algorithms, and simulation programs for semiconductor processing, semiconductor devices, as well as for integrated systems such as those used in the field of power electronics. 

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Modeling of hydrogen systems (digital twins) @ Fraunhofer IISB

Hydrogen is regarded as a promising energy source of the future for stationary and mobile applications. At the same time, hydrogen serves as a chemical feedstock for numerous industrial processes. Fraunhofer IISB has been active in the research and development of hydrogen systems since 2013.

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AlfES - Artificial Intelligence for Embedded Systems @ Fraunhofer IMS

The first open source AI framework "Made in Germany", developed as a Maker project at the Fraunhofer Institute for Microelectronic Circuits and Systems IMS. AIfES® is comparable and compatible with well-known Python ML frameworks like TensorFlow, Keras or PyTorch.

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Human recognition with embedded AI @ Fraunhofer IMS

In the project "noKat" (development of a neural optical camera tracker for the detection of approaching persons), which is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, Fraunhofer IMS is developing an optical proximity sensor together with the partner company van Rickelen GmbH & Co. KG.

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Federated learning for resource-constrained systems @ Fraunhofer IMS

In the Fraunhofer-wide project SEC-Learn (Sensor Edge Cloud for Federated Learning), the main aim is to find out which developments are necessary so that the training of neural networks can be carried out directly at the sensor, but at the same time all other sensor nodes benefit from what has been learned - so-called federated learning. 

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Personalizable AI / Personalizable gesture recognition @ Fraunhofer IMS

The Fraunhofer IMS is researching on a personalizable artificial intelligence (AI), which offers the possibility that devices can be adapted or optimized to their user by means of training. Since the AI software framework AIfES is able to train artificial neural networks (ANN) on e.g. microcontrollers, the technical basis for this has already been developed.

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