The diverse spectrum of our research and teaching includes

  • the modelling
  • numerical simulation and optimisation of complex mechatronic systems (finite elements for multiphysics)
  • sound design and noise reduction (vibro- and aeroacoustics), measurement technology (sound and vibration) and
  • material parameter identification (structural mechanics, acoustics and electromagnetics).

Our Research Focus Areas

Finite Elements for Multiphysics

Model of a stair-like blue body

Development of mechatronic systems using the open source simulation program openCFS based on the finite element method (FEM).

Sensor and Actuator Design

soldered microelectronic component on a circuit board

Development, analysis and optimization of sensors, actuators and sensor-actuator systems using the open-source simulation program openCFS.

Modeling and Simulation

The basis for the analysis and design of complex mechatronic systems is a simulation tool capable of precisely computing the interaction of the different physical fields (structural mechanics,  acoustics, electromagnetics, heat transfer).Therefore, it is able to perform virtual prototyping. Since many years, we have developed and further improved the open source software openCFS, opens an external URL in a new window (Coupled Field Simulation), which solves the describing partial differential equations including their couplings based on the Finite Element (FE) method. Due to advanced material models, nonconforming grid techniques, higher order finite elements, and highly efficient coupling strategies, performance and capability of openCFS are far beyond commercial tools. In addition, the tool automatically performs shape and topology optimisation using an advanced version of the SIMP (Solid Isotropic Material with Penalisation) method.

Measurement Technology

The Research Unit is well equipped with high-end measurement devices in the field of sound and vibration analysis:

Furthermore, we have an electronic lab for the design and fabrication of electronic circuits and a high-end machinery shop for the fabrication of prototypes.

Selected Research Projects

  • ModSimMEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical-Systems) loudspeaker array

  • Identification of noise sources in the automotive industry by correlated beamforming

  • Gearbox acoustics

  • Aeroacoustic and model order reduction of vehicles