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Listen2Future

Listen2Future developed innovative, miniaturized microphones and ultrasonic sensors for use in industrial and medical diagnostics. Silicon Austria Labs led the development of high-performance acoustic MEMS transducers, such as PMUTs and PMICs, for medical imaging and digital industrial applications.

Modern microphone with a glowing blue light on a table, surrounded by digital light points and futuristic effects in an atmospherically lit environment.

Project goals

The project aimed to:

  • Develop next-generation MEMS acoustic transducers (microphones & ultrasound sensors) with higher performance
  • Enable miniaturized, low-power, and cost-efficient sensor systems for medical and industrial use
  • Integrate AI algorithms and dedicated hardware for real-time, intelligent signal processing
  • Bring new sensor technologies to high-volume production and strengthen European industry leadership
  • Demonstrate applications in health & wellbeing (e.g., diagnostics, wearables) and digital industry & energy
  • Support the transition toward a more digitalized “Society 5.0” through advanced sensing solutions
  • Scale micro-electro-mechanical sensors to high-volume, cost-competitive production and enable their use across industrial and medical applications

 

During the project a high-performance broadband PMUT leveraging multiple vibrational mode shapes, together with its PDK (Process Design Kit), were developed to target advanced medical imaging applications. In parallel, air-coupled PMUTs and piezoelectric microphones (PMICs) were developed, supported by advanced characterization methodologies for applications in consumer electronics and digital industries.

Project
facts

Title: Acoustic sensor solutions integrated with digital technologies as key enablers for emerging applications fostering Society 5.0
Program: EU Chips Joint Undertaking (CHIPS JU) / Horizon Europe – Digital, Industry and Space
Financing: Co-financed by the European Union (Grant no. 101096884) with additional national funding from the participating countries; total budget approx. €30 million
Duration: February 2023 – January 2026
Website: Listen2Future

Listen2Future Podcast

Listening to the Future – a podcast showcasing how cutting-edge acoustics and MEMS technologies are shaping the future of healthcare and industry, featuring expert opinions, practical application examples, and exciting insights into innovative research.

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Contact

Business Development
Lisa Kainz MA
Business Development Microsystems
Graz
Project Manager
Dr. Tingzhong Xu
Senior Scientist, Piezoelectric Microsystem Technologies
Villach

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