Profile
The Robotic Vision Lab focuses on innovative imaging processes and robotic systems. The spectrum ranges from measuring 3D endoscopes and hyperspectral camera technologies for medical diagnostics to robotic platforms such as manipulators and drones.
Measurement in endoscopy
A central research topic is the development of measuring functions in endoscopy. One specific model case is minimally invasive surgery for endometriosis - a complex and often underdiagnosed gynecological disease in which the mucous membrane grows outside the uterus and which affects around one in six women of childbearing age. In future, a measuring endoscope will be used to determine the exact size of endometriosis lesions in order to support treatment decisions more objectively. The methods can then be systematically transferred to other cases of the disease.
The team is also working on hyperspectral image sensors that can assign a spectral "fingerprint" to each tissue area. This technology thus opens up the possibility of precisely identifying pathological tissue (such as endometriosis or tumours) during surgery and reliably differentiating it from healthy tissue - even in the case of lesions that are difficult to localize.
Intelligent robotic systems
In addition to medical technology, the laboratory also researches robotic systems. This involves not only the construction of robotic prototypes, but also, for example, the development of camera sensors and (mostly AI-supported) image processing methods that enable robots to precisely perceive their environment - from object recognition and spatial localization to autonomous navigation in complex scenarios. Typical fields of application range from inspection drones that analyze areas that are difficult to access to manipulators that can be used flexibly in industrial or service environments. The laboratory also addresses medical robotics in particular, such as robot-assisted systems for minimally invasive surgery. With robotically guided instruments in combination with innovative camera sensors, these open up new possibilities for performing operations even more precisely, gently and safely. This closes the circle through robotics back to medical technology.
Equipment
- Mobile robot platforms (ground vehicles, flying drones)
- 3 industrial robots and XY linear unit
- 5 collaborative robots incl. stereo vision system
- Servo gripper technology and force-torque sensors
- Medical 3D endoscope and laparoscopic instruments
- Hyperspectral image sensors for VIS/NIR
- LED illumination systems and filter technology for UV/VIS/NIR
- Camera systems (USB, GigE, embedded ARM/DSP, 3D cameras)
- Processor boards with multicore DSPs for sophisticated signal processing
- Real-time PC targets with NI measurement hardware for model-based development
- Vision workstations with image acquisition hardware and 3D displays
Service & Offer
For students...
Students are actively involved in the Robotic Vision Lab. Collaboration is possible as part of project and final theses (Bachelor and Master) as well as student or research assistants. Interested parties can contact us at any time by phone or email to arrange an appointment and discuss current opportunities.
For companies and cooperation partners...
The Robotic Vision Lab offers companies and research partners the opportunity to collaborate in the fields of computer vision and robotics. This includes research collaborations and the processing of specific research and development tasks related to imaging processes and robotic systems.
One example is the characterization and calibration of optical components in order to ensure the quality and precision of sensor systems. In addition, the spectral analysis of objects with hyperspectral camera systems (HSI) is used to make material or tissue-specific properties visible.
The laboratory also supports the implementation of proof-of-concept studies and the development of prototypes that make it possible to evaluate new concepts for practical applications.
