Robert Eberlein

Prof. Dr. Robert Eberlein is a Senior Lecturer in Mechanics at the ZHAW School of Engineering, specifically working at the Institute of Mechanical Systems (IMES). He has served as Director of IMES since 08/2017, following previous roles as Senior Lecturer at IMES (11/2013-07/2017) and industry leadership positions including CTO of Angst+Pfister Group (06/2006-10/2013). Dr. Eberlein holds a Dr.-Ing. (PhD) in Numerical Mechanics from Darmstadt University of Technology (1992-1997) and completed an exchange program at UC Berkeley (1991-1992).

• Education: Dr.-Ing. (PhD) in Numerical Mechanics, Darmstadt University of Technology (07/1992-07/1997); Exchange Student at University of California, Berkeley (07/1991-06/1992)
• Professional: Director of Institute IMES (08/2017-today); Senior Lecturer at IMES (11/2013-07/2017); CTO & Group Executive Committee, Angst+Pfister Group (06/2006-10/2013); Group Leader in Biomechanics, Sulzer Innotec (07/1998-04/2006)

Dr. Eberlein focuses on experimental and numerical modeling of solid polymers and lightweight structures. His research spans material modeling, finite element analysis, and fatigue life prediction for materials like POM gears, TPU and vulcanizates. Recent work explores digital twin development for rubber spring elements and machine learning enhanced process simulation in additive manufacturing. His projects include Lifetime prediction of POM gears, Measurement of human soft tissue properties, and Optimization of plastic gear geometry.

Scientific achievements include:

• Professor ZFH (Fachhochschulrat) - 12/2019
• Dr.-Ing. (PhD) summa cum laude - Darmstadt University of Technology - 07/1997
• Graduate Assistantship - Darmstadt University of Technology - 01/1993

His work appears in journals like International Journal of Non-Linear Mechanics, Rubber Chemistry and Technology, and Journal of Loss Prevention in the Process Industries. Publications since 2015 show a consistent focus on material characterization, finite element modeling, and fatigue analysis with applications in industrial components and biomedical systems.