Scientific focus

For many years, the institute has been involved in the experimental investigation of lightweight structures, the development of corresponding analytical calculation models, the introduction of forces into lightweight structures and the material behavior of composite materials. In particular, fiber composites in monolithic design and sandwich structures are investigated.
For the experimental investigations, the institute has a high-performance laboratory with a wide range of testing equipment at its disposal. Thus, investigations from the material or coupon level up to the larger component can be realized without any problems.
In research, the institute cooperates in various scientific-industrial research projects with renowned partners from the aerospace and automotive industries.

Construction methods, concepts & load introductions

Our goal is to develop innovative approaches and concepts for more efficient and sustainable lightweight structures. The focus here is on the development of efficient, functionally integrated and smart structures in the sense of systemic lightweight construction. However, this also includes the targeted, lightweight use of traditional and new materials as well as load-appropriate design and effective load transfer, taking into account suitable manufacturing processes.

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Fiber Composite Technologies

Fiber reinforced composites (FVW) are indispensable for the development of new concepts for very high performance and lightweight structures as used in the aerospace industry. The development of FVW technologies at the Institute of Lightweight Structures involves a tight cycle of design, fabrication and testing of FVW. The parameters involved to achieve the effective properties of the FVW are controlled at all steps, precisely specifying the design variables and meeting the mechanical requirements demanded by the component.

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Structural dynamics, crash & impact

At the Institute of Lightweight Structures we investigate the structural dynamic characterization and optimization of lightweight structures e.g. natural frequencies, natural modes and modal damping within the framework of experimental modal analysis. Furthermore, we are dedicated to experimental and simulative crash and impact analysis of lightweight structures.

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Additive manufacturing

At the Institute for Lightweight Construction, we are researching the possibilities of additive manufacturing (with a focus on 3D printing), with regard to its potential for lightweight construction. The main focus is on the development of suitable material models, the simulation of the manufacturing process, geometric freedom with regard to complex structures and the resulting possible functional integration, as well as the single-part production of particularly large lightweight structures.

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Publications