Central Scientific Facilities (CSF, also known as ZWE from its German “Zentrale wissenschaftliche Einrichtungen”) at our institute provide support for researchers across various disciplines. A total of six facilities are located on both campuses, where they assist in cutting-edge technologies in robotics and AI.
The mission of Materials CSF is to investigate the fabrication-microstructure-properties relation for smart and modern materials. The facility uses and offers a variety of fabrication methods including physical vapor deposition, polymer synthesis, and laser-lithography as well as analysis methods such as scanning electron microscopy, optical spectroscopy, impedance spectroscopy, ellipsometry, focused ion microscopy, electron transport characterization and spatial mechanical property mapping. A special focus is on the size effects of physical and chemical properties of materials.
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The concept of the facility is designed around the requirements for in-vitro and ex-vivo validation, visualization and tracking of small-scale medical robots. The facility offers multiple non-invasive imaging technologies including confocal microscopy, high-resolution computed tomography (micro-CT), MRI, X-ray and ultrasound imaging. Advanced options combining multiple modalities for simultaneous actuation and visualization can be customized for user needs. Cell culture work within biosafety level one (BLS1), biocompatibility and cytotoxicity assays are available.
OSLab offers support with various specialized cameras and optical systems. In collaboration with Institute’s groups and external partners OSLab conducts research in the field of fiber-based and machine learning-enhanced sensors, pursues the integration of artificial intelligence in psychotherapeutic signal processing, and investigates the usage of 3D parametric models for veterinary diagnosis. The OSLab provides specialized facilities for experiments with lasers and multiple 3d scanning laboratories. As a result, several interdisciplinary studies co-authored by members of the OSLab have been published in the reporting period.
The Robotics Central Scientific Facility was established in 2017 to support the institute’s research objectives via the design, rapid prototyping, and validation of novel robotic and mechatronic systems. Melding together the complementary disciplines of mechanical design, electrical engineering, embedded programming, and systems integration has made possible the vast majority of the technology that pervades our lives, from modern automobiles to smartphones and surgical robots. The majority of the work within the Robotics CSF takes place in close collaboration with institute researchers. For those with completed designs, the Robotics CSF also offers direct additive manufacturing and electrical circuit prototyping services.
The Scientific Computing Facility supports the institute’s research by providing advanced computational infrastructure and expertise. It collaborates with researchers to address challenges in scalable computing and data workflows. Its high-performance cluster, equipped with cutting-edge GPUs and multi-processor nodes, powers AI research. Sustainability is central to its operations, with energy-efficient practices and innovative infrastructure. By combining state-of-the-art technology, expert support, a commitment to empowering researchers, and a focus on sustainability, the Scientific Computing Facility ensures the institute remains a leader in AI research.
The Software Workshop is a unique Central Scientific Facility that brings together scientists and software engineers to translate basic research into robust and standardized software systems. Its goal is to increase the impact of the research made at MPI-IS by creating innovative software solutions for scientific purposes, improving existing codes written by researchers, and providing scientists with state-of-the-art infrastructure for software development, among others.