Andreas Hoppermann
استاد · Product Development
Hochschule Niederrhein University of Applied Sciencesمعرفی
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Andreas Hoppermann serves as Professor of Design Theory at Niederrhein University of Applied Sciences within the Department of Engineering and Computer Science since 2009. He leads the Fluid Power and Tribology Laboratory, conducting research at the intersection of mechanical product development and tribological systems.
His academic foundation includes a Mechanical Engineering degree and doctorate from RWTH Aachen University, where his dissertation investigated surface design and material selection for hydraulic components. Prior to academia, he worked as a research group leader in tribology at RWTH Aachen and as a project-leading development engineer at Voith Paper.
Hoppermann's research centers on product development, design methodology, fluid power engineering, and tribology, with emphasis on technical product optimization, test rig development, and tribological phenomena in industrial applications. His work bridges theoretical modeling with experimental validation in hydrostatic bearing systems and fluid power components.
Recent publications demonstrate a concentrated focus on grease-lubricated hydrostatic bearings, exploring non-Newtonian fluid behavior, pressure distribution, and control concepts. This research trajectory reflects growing industrial demand for efficient, maintenance-friendly bearing solutions in mobile machinery and automotive systems.
His scientific recognition includes the prestigious Borchers-Plakette award from RWTH Aachen.
- Borchers-Plakette
With over 100 supervised master's theses from 2009-2026, Hoppermann has guided research on hydraulic system optimization, tribological contact analysis, and mechanical design innovations. His BMBF-funded "Stahl-Schnecke" project advanced steel-based worm gear technology as bronze alternatives. Current research focuses on hydrostatic bearing performance and tribological testing methodologies.
The Fluid Power and Tribology Laboratory provides experimental facilities for student projects and industry collaborations, featuring test rigs for hydrostatic bearings, tribological contacts, and fluid power systems. This infrastructure supports Hoppermann's applied research approach connecting academic inquiry with industrial problem-solving.
