In 2017 the Endress+Hauser Group once again invested more than seven percent of sales in research and development. “With 261 patent filings, as well as 467 approved patents, we are innovating at a high level again this year,” says Angelika Andres, head of the patent law department. Many of the developments stemmed from liquid analysis, level and flow measurement technologies.
“In order to strengthen the Group’s position in this competitive environment, we protect our innovations with patents in the very early stages,” says Dr Andreas Mayr, Corporate Director Marketing and Technology. 2017 saw several new innovations, as the company introduced 57 new products to the market, including the self-calibrating iTHERM TrustSens thermometer and the Promass Q, which delivers highly precise mass flow, volume flow and density measurements.
Strengthening the spirit of innovation
Apart from the extensive research and development activities, close cooperation with select universities and research institutes is another factor that helps the Group maintain a high level of innovation. The company also established a sensor automation lab on the campus of the University of Freiburg, Germany, where a team of scientists, researchers and developers will be tasked with creating innovative sensor technologies for the Group.
Annual recognition
The company, a provider of measurement and automation technology, has traditionally placed a high value on research and development. Employees who make significant contributions to a patent filing are invited to an annual Innovators’ Meeting. Patents with particularly high business impact are recognized with special awards.
