Jakob Mayer presents

IFSW alumni awards best master thesis 2026

July 3, 2026 / Michael Jarwitz

The association of the former doctoral candidates of the IFSW (VEDIS) has awarded this year’s prize for the best master thesis to Jakob Mayer. The topic of his master's thesis is: “Development of a sensor for the highly precise measurement of gap distances based on optical coherence tomography.”

Presentation of the 2026 VEDIS master‘s thesis Award to Jakob Mayer (right), with the certificate handed over by Dr. Axel Heß (left) of VEDIS. ©
Presentation of the 2026 VEDIS master‘s thesis Award to Jakob Mayer (right), with the certificate handed over by Dr. Axel Heß (left) of VEDIS.

Precise adjustment of the air gap between the stator and rotor is a critical factor in the production of electric motors, significantly influencing their efficiency and lifetime. This demanding measurement task requires a sensor system that is both highly precise and suitable for industrial use.

The goal of the thesis was therefore to develop a suitable measurement system that can reliably inspect the air gap between the rotor and stator on the assembly line.

Jakob Mayer during his presentation at the annual VEDIS meeting at the IFSW. ©
Jakob Mayer during his presentation at the annual VEDIS meeting at the IFSW.

As part of his work, Jakob successfully developed and built such a system. His work encompassed the entire spectrum – from the conceptualization and design of the sensor, through its fabrication using innovative 3D printing of the optics, to the experimental verification of the sensor’s measurement accuracy using a test bench he designed himself. Through his scientifically rigorous approach and technical creativity, Jakob thus succeeded in developing an innovative and industry-relevant solution for this challenging measurement task. 

We congratulate Jakob on winning this year's VEDIS Master Thesis Award!

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