Digitalization

Digitalization is a decisive factor for the future optimization of coating processes in the field of thin-film technologies. By using state-of-the-art technologies, processes can be made more efficient and the quality of coatings can be significantly improved.

At Fraunhofer FEP, we will therefore focus on the utilization, implementation and application of digital technologies and artificial intelligence for the continuous further development of our process technologies and coating developments. 

 

Advantages of digitalization

The implementation of digital solutions in the coating processes offers numerous advantages:

• Real-time data analysis: digital recording of process and system data allows deviations to be identified and rectified immediately.
• Model-based process optimization: Digital twins enable the simulation and analysis of process sequences, which leads to targeted adaptation and optimization.
• Prediction models: Artificial intelligence (AI) can be used to make predictions about the effects of process changes on coating quality.
• Standardization and documentation: Digital systems facilitate the standardized recording and documentation of processes, which increases reproducibility.

 

Outlook

The continuous digitalization of coating processes will not only improve the efficiency and quality of the coatings produced, but will also drive the development of new materials and technologies. Through the exchange and analysis of data, innovative approaches to process optimization can be implemented that meet the requirements of tomorrow's industry.

One example of the practical implementation of these approaches is the DigiMatUs project, which is driving forward the digitalization of coating processes for high-resolution ultrasonic sensors.