Shaping the technology of tomorrow
The future of mobility is already being created today. And it’s happening day by day. It is people like Martin Graf who are passionately working on the future of cars and their many details. The software engineer is developing so-called power packs at thyssenkrupp Steering in Eschen, Liechtenstein – powerful power sources responsible for making electric steering possible in the first place.
Martin Graf has always had a soft spot for cars. After completing his apprenticeship at Rhätischen Bahn AG in Landquart, in the Swiss canton of Graubünden, and his military service, he spent a few months assisting at a car workshop. But Martin wanted more: He joined thyssenkrupp Steering as a steering column designer in 2007. “When I took the job in 2007, I decided to do a degree in a software engineering part-time,” he reveals. This was his entry into the world of electrics/electronics (E/E).
The car: a highly complex and customisable system
After completing his studies, he first headed the testing department before taking up the position of "Teamleader PowerPack" at thyssenkrupp Steering. Today he is responsible for the development and control of the "Power Packs", which consist of control units and electric motors. These "power packs" support the steering electronically and thus make it easier to steer also larger vehicles.
The range of tasks that Martin and his team work on is extremely extensive. "It ranges from pre-development projects and design studies to series development and international implementation," explains the 37-year-old.
Modularisation is one of the greatest challenges in a system as complex and customisable as a car. “Our goal is always to develop elements that can be sensibly reused in the design. To this end, we are constantly designing the components that go into our modular system.”
The interplay between electronics and software
Above all, it is this interplay between electronics and software that has fascinated Martin in his role as an Electrics/Electronics (E/E) expert since he way a young boy: "Electronics development in the automotive environment is definitely a great challenge. Increasing demands and new trends always require new technologies and innovations. As I like to face new challenges, I naturally enjoy this dynamic very much."
Every day, Martin works on integrating electronics and software into the “overall car system” at thyssenkrupp Steering. After all, “thyssenkrupp Steering does not ‘just’ develop and manufacture steering systems”, as Martin highlights. “We also integrate our systems and modules into complex, mechatronic assemblies.”
One thing is clear: Martin has found his dream job at thyssenkrupp Steering. “The challenges are exactly what I was looking for and have learned to love,” he says enthusiastically. “Here, I get first-hand experience of the technology that goes into making tomorrow’s car and can even help shape it.”