In cryotechnology, temperature management and targeted cooling are being used in microfluidic systems for sample preservation or process control.
Microfluidics is another central field, recognized as a key technology for point-of-care diagnostics and lab-on-a-chip systems. The integration of microstructured channels, valves, and sensors into compact formats enables chemical and biological analyses with minimal sample volumes. Another research focus lies on the development of miniaturized, highly sensitive sensors for continuous medical monitoring or therapeutic control.
Quantum technologies are also increasingly being explored in micromanufacturing and medical technology. Initial approaches focus on quantum-based sensing, high-resolution imaging, or the precise control of photons or particles. These applications are currently in a transitional phase between basic research and industrial implementation.
In addition, digitalization plays a pivotal role. Simulations, digital twins, and artificial intelligence (AI) are used to model, optimize, and monitor production processes in real time. AI-based methods help detect errors during production or enable adaptive process control that responds to material properties or environmental conditions.
With an eye to the future, several trends are already apparent. These include the development of multifunctional materials – such as self-healing or conductive polymers – the establishment of hybrid manufacturing processes that combine additive and subtractive techniques, and the growing use of automated microfabrication systems in modular production environments. These developments aim to enhance process security, scalability, and flexibility while simultaneously reducing resource consumption and production cycles. Together, they represent the next step in the industrial implementation of microsystems technology in the medical sector.