What is FIP-SPE@FCU?

FIP-SPE@FCU is an innovation centre that focusses on future coating production systems. The aim of this long-term cooperation is to jointly develop needs-based technological and cross-sectoral solutions with primary focus on optical and electrical systems.

Increasing complexity in the thin film layer stacks (e.g. precision optical systems) with drastic reduction in tolerances and growing demand for batch to batch reproducibility, reliable processes, and product flexibility puts a high demand on process and production equipment. Furthermore, with more flexible products, i.e. mid-size campaigns, high quality products, low- to no-defect batches, and extreme costly parts, the demand of cyberphsical production systems and the integration of these systems into production lines and factories becomes the game-changer in future production.

The FIP-SPE@FCU benefits from the combined expertise of the partners in materials science, production technology, and process simulation. It focusses on innovations in high precision coatings, advanced process monitoring and control, computer aided process optimization, and improved human-computerinterfaces. Joining forces of Feng Chia University and Fraunhofer IST thus provides a unique base for future coating production systems.

History Between FCU and Fraunhofer IST

Feng Chia University (FCU) and Fraunhofer IST have long collaborated in vacuum deposition and plasma technology, particularly in High-Power Impulse Magnetron Sputtering (HIPIMS).

Their partnership began in 2015 when FCU hosted the High-Density Plasma Coating Forum, where Fraunhofer IST researcher Dr. Ralf Bandorf was invited as a keynote speaker. This led to a reciprocal visit to Fraunhofer IST, expanding discussions to Gas Flow Sputtering (GFS) technology. Later that year, Prof. Wolfgang Diehl of Fraunhofer IST became a Distinguished Chair Professor at FCU, further strengthening collaboration.

In 2018, the Institute of Plasma (IOP) at FCU was established, with Fraunhofer IST as a key partner. This partnership extended to optical coatings in 2019, leading to the Advanced Optical Coating Forum and joint research in process monitoring and control under a Germany-Taiwan ZIM project.

To formalize and expand their collaboration, FCU and Fraunhofer IST initiated the Fraunhofer Innovation Platform for Surface and Production Engineering at FCU (FIP-SPE@FCU) in 2021. After two years of preparation, FIP-SPE@FCU was officially launched in 2024, focusing on coating production systems, digital manufacturing, and optical technologies to drive future innovations.