Fraunhofer FHR conducts application-oriented research in the field of electromagnetic sensors, particularly radar. The institute’s internationally recognized and valued competence covers nearly all areas of modern radar technology. With about 300 employees and a budget of some 30.9 million euros in 2015, Fraunhofer FHR is one of the largest radar research institutes in Europe. “Both institute heads are excellent scientists and experts in radar technology. With Dr. Knott as executive director, he and Prof. Heberling will provide experienced dual leadership that will continue to push radar system applications and further Fraunhofer FHR’s good economic growth,” says Prof. Reimund Neugebauer, president of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft.

Dr. Peter Knott joined Fraunhofer FHR in 1994. His research focused on the electromagnetic simulation and development of antenna groups for radar systems. Since 2005, he has led the institute’s Antenna Technology and Electromagnetic Modelling (AEM) department, and he began teaching at RWTH Aachen in 2009.

After completing his doctorate at RWTH Aachen in 1993, Prof. Dirk Heberling was initially group manager and then department head at IMST GmbH in Kamp-Lintfort. His research examined antenna technologies for a wide range of applications, and his work played a crucial role in IMST’s commercial success. In 2008, he was appointed chair at the Institute for High Frequency Technology at RWTH Aachen. He has been a member of the Fraunhofer FHR advisory board since 2009.

Civilian radar systems: Demand for growth in industry 4.0 and automated driving

“We would like to continue working closely with the German Bundeswehr and the German Federal Ministry of Defense and keep expanding within the framework of new projects,” says Knott. Heberling adds, “We see great demand for growth in radar systems for the civilian sector as well, such as for industry 4.0 applications and automated driving. Having a Fraunhofer FHR location on the RWTH Aachen campus guarantees a close link to these technologies in the future.”

After 40 years at the institute and 13 years as director of Fraunhofer FHR, Prof. Joachim Ender is retiring. As a scientist, he made a name for himself worldwide as an expert on innovative radar technologies; for example, multi-dimensional imaging and moving target detection, and reconstruction of signals in downsampled measurements. The institute thrived under his leadership, and opened up many new markets for radar applications. He received the Fraunhofer Medal for his achievements.