fka GmbH

We gathered data from 8 different LiDAR sensors' performance in adverse conditions: Recently, we wrapped up the test execution phase of our LiDAR Performance in Adverse Conditions (LPAC) project. Using controlled environments with fog, rain, and spray, we explored how these factors impact sensor performance. The insights from this phase, combined with upcoming analysis, will be presented to the LPAC consortium members in February. 🔍 What’s next? Next, we’ll analyze LiDAR sensors across different wavelengths and study how they interact and interfere with each other. These findings will contribute to developing a standardized test methodology for evaluating LiDAR performance under adverse conditions—a key step toward advancing the industry. 💡 Interested in the anonymized results? There’s still time to join the consortium! Contact Amogh Sakpal or Adrian Zlocki for details.

We are thrilled to share the recent publication of a paper by our colleague Christian Harter: Momentum for Mega Castings - Impact on Technology, Market and Value Chains. This paper explores the transformative potential of Aluminum Mega Castings in the automotive industry, particularly through Chinese carmakers. Simplifying production, reducing costs, and reshaping value chains, Mega Castings are set to revolutionize how vehicles are designed and manufactured. Imagine: Up to one hundred individual sheet metal components in a rear vehicle structure can be replaced by a single Mega Casting component! In cooperation with Automotive Disruption Radar, the paper was just released on their platform! You can find the link to the full paper in the comments below. 👇

🔍 Struggling to find a diverse participant pool for your upcoming study? Look no further! 👥 Introducing our comprehensive participant database, featuring 1200+ volunteers from a wide range of backgrounds and age groups. Not only that, but we've gone the extra mile by including specific details like sex, weight, and height, vision impact (glasses) and even details that are required by you – covering all the bases for your research needs! 🔬 Whether you're gearing up for your next research endeavor or planning a study, our database is primed and ready to assist. Don't hesitate to connect with us – our dedicated team is here to provide guidance and help you handpick the perfect participants for your study. 📧 Reach out to us at: mobilitaetstester@fka.de 💡You would like to actively shape the mobility of tomorrow and are interested in becoming a mobility tester to experience innovative vehicle technologies first hand. Then sign up now as a participant through the following link and become part of our fascinating world of research! Link in the comments below 👇

How has the automotive industry evolved over the last 30 years? We posed this question to our colleague, Manfred Crampen, who has been an integral part of our team for over 35 years! Manfred’s journey began as a student assistant at the Institute for Jet Propulsion. He later wrote his thesis in collaboration with our partner, Institut für Kraftfahrzeuge (ika) - RWTH Aachen University and joined us to spearhead the implementation of the new PAISI all-wheel-drive test bench. Today, Manfred leads our Powertrain and Thermomanagement department. Listen to him sharing his insights on the industry’s transformation— and reminisce about long nights at the test bench! 💪 We’re deeply grateful for Manfred’s expertise and dedication, which continue to power our efforts to shape the future of mobility. 🙌

📅 Save the Date: Aachen Body Engineering Days 2025 🚗 Gear up to make a lasting impact in the automotive industry! We invite experts in body engineering, materials, and production technology to join us on September 16th & 17th, 2025, in Aachen, Germany. For further information, take a look on our website: Link in the comments below 👇

Feeling like you are back at school? Our interactive ESG quiz might cause that feeling. But do not worry; our colleague Alexander is here to help you out: Introducing a strategic view on ESG reporting and how companies can prepare themselves for the new regulations. Keep your eyes peeled because in the following weeks, we will take you on a ride through the world of ESG Strategy and what may happen if you are not ready for the new developments in sustainability! Exhibits like our ESG quiz are designed to be interactive and fun ways to approach a complex topic such as sustainability and showcase how marketing and engineering teams work together to create an immersive and round experience. What was your high score when trying the ESG quiz at our booth at the Aachen Colloquium?

📚 Happy Students' Day! 🌍🎓 Today, on World Students' Day, we would like to recognize and thank our Student Assistants at fka. With a highly qualified staff that is deeply rooted in RWTH Aachen University, particularly Institut für Kraftfahrzeuge (ika) - RWTH Aachen University our organization stays attuned to research areas that align with our customers' future needs. At fka, we offer young talents several opportunities to shape the future of mobility - whether as Student Assistants, interns, or through thesis projects. Students bring fresh perspectives to our work, enhancing our innovation. We are pleased to support them in their development and ideally to integrate them into our team upon graduation. Recently, we asked two of our Student Assistants about their experiences at fka: @Nina Ludolf, who works in our crash test facility, said: “It's valuable to gain practical engineering insights that complement my studies. This role allows me to apply theoretical knowledge I’ve gained in practice.” @Jan Wörtler, a Student Assistant at flat-trac, shared: “What I appreciate most about working at fka is being integrated as a true member of the team. I can contribute my skills and never feel like just an assistant.”

Look out for flying tyres at our booth! Because Torben's corner module is hanging down from the ceiling! Meet him and our colleague Bart, who will introduce you to a new way of thinking about steering control and safety. The innovative exhibit showcases a concept for an integral steering and driving module. The Corner Module is the exhibit provided by our partner the Institut für Kraftfahrzeuge (ika) - RWTH Aachen University! Here two individual electric actuators enable the combination of steering and driving in one compact wheel. We hope nobody bumped their head while enjoying the presentations!

🚗 How do mega-casting and efficient car body construction go hand in hand? 🎙️ We are excited for our colleague Dr. Michael Hamacher's presentation on "Mega-Casting in Car Body Construction - Application & Boundary Conditions" at the CyberJoin workshop about lightweight body construction and integration of mega-casting in Stuttgart tomorrow! In his presentation, he will provide an overview on mega-casting and its application in the vehicle body. Various application examples are shown and aspects relating to casting boundary conditions, component integration, body stiffness, crash requirements, repairability and vehicle assembly will be discussed as well. 💡 Join us on the 14th of November at the MPA University of Stuttgart to get insights into the latest news on mega-casting! Secure your spot via the link in the comments below 👇

🎶 Join us at the Aachen Acoustics Colloquium! 🎶 📅 Dates: November 25-27, 2024 📍 Location: Aachen The conference is just a few days away! Now is the perfect time to secure your ticket and be part of this exciting event. Don't miss out on the latest advancements and discussions in acoustics. Register now at the link in the comments below 👇 We look forward to seeing you there!