Michael Vielhaber

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Michael Vielhaber is the Chair of Product Development at Saarland University, formerly known as the Chair of Design Engineering. He is embedded in the Department of Systems Engineering and leads a dynamic research group focused on integrated product development, lightweight and material-oriented design, and sustainable innovation. His work emphasizes lean and fast innovation processes through virtual development and practical transfer.

• University: Saarland University
• School: Department of Systems Engineering
• Department: Chair of Product Development
• Academic Rank: Professor
• Email: Vielhaber@lkt.uni-saarland.de

His research interests include simulation-based mechatronic design, additive manufacturing, virtual system development, and sustainable product development. He promotes the integration of education and real-world application, exemplified by initiatives like integrating Formula Student into design education. His work bridges theoretical concepts with industrial applicability, focusing on digital tools and sustainable engineering solutions.

The recent publications from his chair reflect a strong trend toward sustainability, circularity, and simulation-driven design. Topics include holistic circularity analysis, positive impact product engineering, and eco-design of vehicle systems. These works demonstrate a shift from traditional design to future-oriented, environmentally responsible innovation.

While no scientific awards are explicitly listed, his sustained leadership and publication record in top-tier design conferences (CIRP, NordDesign, ICED) reflect significant academic recognition.

Prof. Vielhaber has supervised numerous doctoral and research students, including Dr.-Ing. Fabio Dohr, Dr.-Ing. Tobias Lüdeke, and Dr.-Ing. Pascal Stoffels. His team includes current scientific staff such as Dr.-Ing. Tobias Häfele and M.Sc. Dominik Neumann. He collaborates with institutions like IZES and htw saar, and his research is applied in projects involving new mobility concepts and sustainable manufacturing.

His lab, the Chair of Product Development, functions as an interdisciplinary hub for innovation, combining research, teaching, and practical transfer in systems engineering and product development.