Sensory systems connect real-world stimuli with the digital world. In this strategic field of activity, the entire IHP value chain works at different levels of complexity to study and innovate in the materials, circuit design, and integration of sensors as well as the processing of the output signals.
In microelectronics, sensory systems are responsible for acquiring, processing, taking decisions and acting on data originating from the physical world. At IHP, we are interested in the development and operation of individual sensors, sensor circuits, their communication networks and interoperability. We investigate conventional and novel materials as transducers of the physical stimuli. Ranging from SiGe-compatible to more unconventional materials, research is ongoing to improve the sensitivity and selectivity of our devices. Alongside energy-efficient, high-bandwidth circuits we strive to provide the most advanced and secure technologies. As such, IHP has the following competences in the field of sensory systems:
Competencies
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Novel 2D sensor materials
Novel 2D sensor materials
2D materials, such as graphene and hexagonal boron nitride, have the potential to enable highly sensitive sensors due to their maximized surface-to-volume ratio. Ongoing research has taken 2D materials out of the laboratories and into IHP’s pilot line.
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THz biosensors and surface functionalization
THz biosensors and surface functionalization
Plasmonic antennas based on highly-doped germanium are fabricated in the IHP clean room. Their response at THz frequencies is being investigated as an emerging sensing strategy. Using surface functionalization, which serves as a chemical interface to anchor biorecognition elements and improve its selectivity, the interaction between proteins e.g. HSA and toxins is investigated.
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Quantum materials for cutting-edge sensing
Quantum materials for cutting-edge sensing
Quantum sensors exploit quantum degrees of freedom to detect physical quantities such as temperature, magnetic fields, and electric current with sensitivities beyond those of classical sensors. In high-mobility Ge and Si, single-electron transistors act as sensitive charge sensors that can resolve single-electron events and enable spin readout through spin-to-charge conversion.
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Emerging Si-CMOS compatible sensors
Emerging Si-CMOS compatible sensors
Novel devices and modules for Si-CMOS compatible technologies can be developed within the institute's own 200 mm pilot line process platform.
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MEMS-based sensors
MEMS-based sensors
Si-CMOS compatible micro-fabrication capabilities of Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) allows the integration of mechanical elements and electronic circuits within the same silicon chip. Thus, technologies such as accelerometers and gyroscopes are accessible for research and development.
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Remote sensor networks
Remote sensor networks
The deployment of large quantities of sensors, as envisioned by the Internet of Things (IoT) requires a minimal power consumption. Specialized circuits are needed to capture, condition, process and transmit real-time data energy-efficiently.
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Sub-THz circuits for sensors
Sub-THz circuits for sensors
Large bandwidth requirements such as real-time 3D imaging or ultra-precise radar for unmanned vehicles are obtained through circuits operating at very high frequencies. The ultra-high frequencies obtained by IHP’s SiGe Bipolar transistor technologies enables operation frequencies beyond 500 GHz.
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Sensor data processing and connectivity
Sensor data processing and connectivity
An efficient system architecture must optimize sensor data processing at the source before transmission as well as establishing strategies to handle possible errors and faults in the operation and intercommunication of the system.
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Protocols and security of sensor networks
Protocols and security of sensor networks
As sensors become more integrated into our lives and the equipment around us, they become high-value targets for hackers. The exchange of information must be protected from malicious data interception and tampering. IHP researchers study and develop secure communication strategies so that the data within the network (node-to-node) and outside the network (node-to-cloud) is safe.
The push for energy-efficient, wireless, high-bandwidth, and secure sensor systems is a primary driver of our ever-more connected society. Therefore, we require highly-sensitive devices that can be mass produced and integrated into wireless communication systems that can protect the stream of data being acquired. Combining hardware and software in sensory systems requires energy-efficient designs that extend operational lifetime while providing the processing power needed for edge computing, thereby reducing unnecessary resource waste.
Due to its unique position, IHP can provide customers with prototypes and advice along its whole chain of value: from novel functional materials to established SiGe-based technologies, high-end wireless circuits with secure communication, and control protocols for network connectivity of sensory systems. Whether in conventional adaptations, novel processes, highly experimental new methodologies or materials, IHP has the expertise to bridge between basic science and industrial applications.
