Mandatory Internship/Thesis: Power over Ethernet Integration for 3D Safety Sensors (Waldkirch (near Freiburg), Waldkirch (near Freiburg), Waldkirch (near Freiburg), Waldkirch )

Winter semester 2026/2027 – fixed term of 5–6 months

Our 3D safety sensors are among the core technologies in Factory Automation – and integrating Power over Ethernet opens up new possibilities for their power supply. In this internship/thesis, you actively contribute to the development of a forward-looking supply concept, working closely with our development team.

YOUR TASKS:

• You research and analyze relevant PoE standards (e.g., IEEE 802.3af/at/bt)

• You compare various PoE architectures and supply concepts for industrial sensors and evaluate them against the current power supply concept of a high-resolution 3D safety sensor

• You develop a suitable hardware concept for PoE integration and implement it in a circuit design and an evaluation PCB

• You examine compliance with relevant PoE requirements and standards

• You analyze and evaluate a switching concept between PoE and direct supply (power OR-ing)

• You investigate the effects on digital safety outputs (OSSDs) and their supply concept

• You conduct measurements regarding efficiency, power loss, switching behavior, robustness, and EMC influences

• You document and present your results

YOUR PROFILE:

• You are enrolled in a degree program in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Embedded Systems, or a comparable field

• You bring foundational knowledge in analog and digital circuit design

• You have an interest in power supplies, power electronics, and industrial communication

• Initial experience with PCB design tools is an advantage

• Familiarity with lab and measurement equipment is desirable

• An independent, structured, and analytical way of working sets you apart

Contact: Sarah Disch