Fraunhofer Institute for Material and Beam Technology IWSThe development of innovative microsystems relies on the successful integration of multiple steps – from material selection and design to a variety of manufacturing technologies. Using numerical simulations and CAD/CAM processes, initial concepts can be turned into functional prototypes within just a few days, which can then be produced through multilayer lamination, micro-milling, 3D printing, or silicone casting. Testing in real-world application environments, along with optimization and scaling of manufacturing processes, enables the seamless transfer to practical use and the successful transition from prototype to series production.
High-precision Components
State-of-the-art Manufacturing Technology – Micrometer Precision
© Fraunhofer IWS
Design and Prototyping of Microsystems
Customized microsystem architectures for flexible, application-oriented microfluidics in research and industry.
From polymer film to microsystem: precise layer cutting for the manufacture of microsystems.
Our Services
Design and Construction of Microsystems
Manufacturing-oriented and scalable design of microfluidic systems forms the foundation for efficient translation from initial concept to series production.
- Custom requirements analysis
- Simulation of functional units and assemblies using network simulation or finite element methods (FEM)
- CAD-based design and engineering
- CAM-supported manufacturing preparation
- Digital recording, documentation, and monitoring of all production steps and prototypes (digital twin)
Manufacturing of Microsystems and Components
A wide range of manufacturing technologies is available for producing microfluidic systems, enabling flexible, scalable, and reproducible production:
- Multilayer lamination (sheet-to-stack)
- Precision micro-milling
- Additive manufacturing (3D printing)
- Microstructuring (laser, xurography)
- Plasma-based surface modification
- Bonding processes for multi-material assemblies (plasma, chemical, laser)