Imagine robots exploring uncharted waters. That’s the kind of cutting-edge work happening right here at the Robotics Innovation Center.
The Robotics Innovation Center is part of the German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence. It is located in Bremen. Here, scientists develop robotic systems for use on land, underwater, in the air, and even in space. The center works closely with the Robotics Group at the University of Bremen.
Headed by Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. Frank Kirchner, the Robotics Innovation Center has become a dominant force. The center is known throughout Northern Germany. It has earned an excellent reputation far beyond Bremen.
Within the Robotics Innovation Center lies the Robotics Exploration Laboratory. This lab offers unique research infrastructure. The Maritime Exploration Hall spans approximately 1,300 square meters. Inside, a large basin holds 3.4 million liters of saltwater. This allows researchers to test new robotic technologies in controllable conditions. They are not subject to weather changes.
A pressure chamber tests components at water pressures up to 660 bar. Two additional water basins and a 3D virtual test environment are also available. These facilities enable the development of robots for inspecting ships and pipelines. They can explore uncharted waters. They can even repair offshore installations.
The Space Exploration Hall covers 288 square meters. It features a nine-meter-wide crater landscape. This imitates a crater on the lunar south pole. Moon-like lighting creates a realistic test environment. Here, robots destined for space missions undergo rigorous testing.
Outside, a robot path presents 15 challenging obstacles over 500 square meters. This tests the capabilities of walking, climbing, driving, and floating robotic systems.
The Robotics Innovation Center actively participates in various robotic application domains. These include robotics for inspection and maintenance. They also focus on space and maritime environments, production, mobility, and healthcare.
The Robotics Innovation Center maintains strong connections with industry, SMEs, and academia. Large companies like AIRBUS Group, Robert Bosch GmbH, and Volkswagen are shareholders of DFKI.
The Robotics Innovation Center is associated with Bremen University. Prof. Kirchner teaches computer science and robotics there. The center is involved in vocational training related to service robots in SMEs. This happens through the University and the Bremen Chamber of Commerce.
In 2024, around 900 visitors attended the DFKI Open Day in Bremen. Many school classes were among them. Visitors got a behind-the-scenes look at research in artificial intelligence, robotics, and secure systems.
The Robotics Innovation Center even has its own salvage diver group. This group supports underwater tests. They ensure the safety and success of these operations.
From exploring the depths of the ocean to reaching for the stars, the Robotics Innovation Center is pushing the boundaries. It shapes the future of robotics.