Intelligent structure systems that independently adapt to changing operating or environmental conditions, that are quieter and generate less vibration, use energy sparingly and complete production processes faster and with better precision – adaptive structure technologies are breaking down technical and economic barriers in passive and active mechatronic applications.

Adaptronics, researched in the United States since the early 1980s as part of the Strategic Defense Initiative, and for some ten years now in Germany, not only supports improved performance in the most varied fields; the complexity of the necessary technologies also offers a competitive advance to high-tech centers, and makes product counterfeiting more difficult.

Adaptive systems are the foundation for further development of innovative machine tool designs, one of the core areas of expertise for German manufacturers, who continue to lead the global markets in this sector. Reducing noise pollution is also becoming increasingly important. Whether high-speed rail or helicopters, printing line or machine room, adaptronics can spearhead the shift from minimum sound insulation to "acoustic comfort."

At HANNOVER MESSE 2012, the Adaptronics theme stand in Hall 2 presents the multifaceted areas of use and industry solutions for R&D services in the field of adaptive structure systems: among other things, the Fraunhofer Adaptronics Alliance presents the current state of this cross-industry technology.