Fraunhofer ITWM at SMM 2026

Digital Twins and Modern Testing Technology for Shipbuilding

Press Release / August 24, 2026

The Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Mathematics ITWM presents solutions for the simulation of maritime processes and the non-destructive testing of modern ship components at SMM (Shipbuilding, Machinery, and Marine Technology) 2026. As part of the Fraunhofer joint booth in Hall B6, Booth 230, the institute, together with four other Fraunhofer institutions, showcases innovative technologies for maritime transformation. Digital twins and modern measurement technology help shipyards and manufacturers shorten development times, ensure quality, and reduce costs.

Ships are expected to become more efficient, sustainable, and safer. At the same time, the maritime industry is facing increasing demands for new materials, complex designs, and cost-effective production processes. At SMM 2026 in Hamburg, Fraunhofer ITWM demonstrates how mathematical models, digital twins, and modern testing systems can support companies in this transformation.

Realistic Simulation of Ship Movements

The focus of the exhibition is the MESHFREE simulation software. Developed by Fraunhofer ITWM, this technology does not require a fixed computational grid and is particularly well-suited for highly dynamic processes that are difficult to model using traditional simulation methods. In the maritime sector, MESHFREE enables, among other things, the simulation of moving ships and their interaction with waves. Other areas of application include tank sloshing, flooding scenarios, spray cleaning processes, and floating bridge systems.

A new user interface allows simulation scenarios to be intuitively configured, launched, and evaluated. This simplifies access to complex simulations and consolidates the entire workflow into a single, centralized environment.

Checking Quality Without Damaging Components

A second area of focus is the non-destructive testing of modern composite materials. To this end, Fraunhofer ITWM is developing measurement systems based on terahertz and millimeter waves. These technologies make it possible to visualize the internal structures of components and precisely determine layer thicknesses.

This allows for the non-contact inspection of, for example, fuselage sections, deck structures, pipes, radomes, or bonded joints. The systems detect delamination, moisture inclusions, porosity, and bonding defects and can be used both in the laboratory and directly at the shipyard or in automated production facilities. Robot-assisted and hand-held solutions also allow for the inspection of large and curved components.

For companies, this means greater transparency regarding the condition of their components, higher quality standards, and the opportunity to reduce maintenance and repair costs.

Handheld terahertz measurement technology — © Fraunhofer ITWM
Terahertz measurement technology offers advanced solutions for the non-destructive testing of composites and precise layer thickness measurement. This technology enables in-depth analysis of material structures and properties, allowing the quality and integrity of components to be monitored efficiently.

MESHFREE Shipping Simulation — © Fraunhofer ITWM
The interaction between waves and a ship is a highly complex process. MESHFREE can be used to simulate these processes and identify optimization potential at an early stage of the design process.

Research for Shipbuilding

At SMM 2026, Fraunhofer ITWM showcases specific application examples from simulation and nondestructive testing. The exhibits illustrate how digital twins and modern measurement technology can help make maritime processes more efficient, safer, and more cost-effective.

Visitors can find Fraunhofer ITWM from September 1 to 4, 2026, at the Fraunhofer joint booth in Hall B6, Booth 230.

Working Together for Maritime Transformation

The five participating Fraunhofer institutes in the region collectively cover key stages of the maritime value chain and present solutions for shipping, shipbuilding, production, quality assurance, and maintenance.

Fraunhofer CML: AI for Safe and Efficient Shipping

The Fraunhofer Center for Maritime Logistics and Services (CML) demonstrates how artificial intelligence and data-driven optimization make ship operations safer and more efficient. Exhibits include bridge assistance systems, camera-based collision-avoidance solutions, and AI-supported optimization methods for maritime applications.

Fraunhofer IGP: Robotics and Augmented Reality for Modern Shipbuilding

The Fraunhofer Institute for Large Structures in Production Engineering (IGP) is showcasing robotics, automation, and augmented reality solutions for modern shipbuilding. Visitors can see firsthand how digital production environments and automated machining technologies are making the manufacturing of large ship components more efficient.

Fraunhofer IWS: Laser Technologies for Manufacturing, Protection, and Repair

The Fraunhofer Institute for Materials and Beam Technology (IWS) is presenting laser-based processes for manufacturing, lightweight construction, and maintenance in shipbuilding. These technologies enable efficient welding, coating, and repair processes for maritime components.

Fraunhofer Transport Alliance, »Waterborne« Working Group

The Fraunhofer Transport Alliance brings together expertise in logistics, ship operations, alternative propulsion systems, and maritime technology within its »Waterborne« working group. It connects the participating institutions and promotes the development of holistic solutions for the maritime transformation.

Press Release

Fraunhofer ITWM at SMM 2026

Digital Twins and Modern Testing Technology for Shipbuilding

Realistic Simulation of Ship Movements

Mehr Informationen

Checking Quality Without Damaging Components

Research for Shipbuilding

Working Together for Maritime Transformation

Contact Press / Media

Dr. Isabel Michel

Contact Press / Media

Dr. Joachim Jonuscheit

Contact Press / Media

M.A. Esther Packullat