ANNUAL REPORT 2017

advanced robotic applications, all within the framework of the so- called European Digital Innovation Hubs. More specifically, and as regards control, work has focused on advanced movement control devices for smart mechatronic systems. Particularly, on the development of algorithms to monitor vibrations and repetitive actions to increase machine tool productivity, firstly, and the accuracy of parts made in repetitive processes, secondly. Another activity that began in 2017 and will continue next year addresses movement control devices for main axes of the LSST telescope (www.lsst.org ) , a very large, high-precision telescope designed to deliver optimum dynamic performance at a worldwide scale. The drive systems used have been fitted with hydrostatic bearings, linear motors in a circular layout and project-customised head encoding tapes. Moving on now to surface engineering, since 2016, IK4-TEKNIKER has made major efforts to industrialise surfacing techniques from the point of view of the processes and resources used. In terms of processes, 2017 was the year when IK4-TEKNIKER implemented a surface development methodology focused on initiating the design of a scalable process that has been strongly supported by multi- disciplinary teams characterised by diverse skills on how to analyse basic material behaviour or how a surface-processing line can be automated. As an example of this methodology, within the framework of a new H2020 (INPOWER) project that lends continuity to our development of selective coatings for thermal solar receptors, work has started on receptors to be installed at pilot plants involving high temperature operations. As regards surface processing equipment, it was in 2017 when a unit was designed to deposit fine layers based on solgel technology by using an application that in the future will be incorporated to a roll- to-roll production line to bring efficient, continuous low-cost micro- manufacturing of large nanostructured films closer to the industry. In terms of new approaches related to surface engineering, we must now address the connection between bits and surfaces. Based on this general goal and within the framework of the AVANSURF industrial project covering the development of high-performance multi-functional coatings demanded in offshore sector, we are initiating the design and development of micro sensors allowing these coatings to be monitored throughout their life cycle. In 2017, work focused, among other things, on improving the development process applied to electronic products. As a result of the experience gained in recent years in terms of developing projects related to products of this kind, an opportunity was seen with regard to deadlines and resources required by customers. The new process contains a description on how a product evolves within the framework of a global roadmap. It also reviews general processes linked to design, development, integration and validation, both in relation to the customer and internally. This year, a doctoral thesis has given rise to a methodology addressing sensors for the industrial, medical and food sectors that will reinforce our offer of services connected to the design, development and homologation of sensors meeting critical requirements associated with developing reliable, standardised, compact and suitably priced solutions. By applying this methodology it becomes possible to reduce costs as well the amount of time needed to develop products of this kind and also adjust what the centre has on offer to meet the market’s real needs. In the case of the industrial sector, some examples are connected to lubricant-quality sensors featuring NIR technologies, sensors used to increase the level of food safety in the dried fruit sector and sensors for solar field maintenance and calibration. INDEX 01 MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR 02 REPORT BY THE GENERAL MANAGEMENT 03 MARKET MANAGEMENT 04 TECHNOLOGY MANAGEMENT 05 THE VOICE OF OUR CUSTOMERS AND COLLABORATORS 06 REVENUES AND BOOK BALANCE 07 COLLABORATING ORGANISATIONS & GOVERNING BOARD 08 IK4 RESEARCH ALLIANCE