The chair

Research mainly focusses on computer architectures for Computational Intelligence by making use of the following methods and fields of application:

Artificial Neural Networks

Research is done here on neural net simulation which has begun with the development of the Stuttgart Neural Network Simulator. Neural nets are used for classification, parameter identification, control and prediction in technical applications (e.g. for motor optimization) and they are applied in bioinformatics (e.g. for searching and optimizing lead compounds). A multimedia training course on neural networks is developed in the project VirtuGrade (Baden-Württemberg).


Evolutionary Algorithms

In the EvA project (evolutionary algorithms) a system was developed combining several sequential and parallel variants of genetic algorithms (GA) and evolution strategies (ES).
EvA runs on Linux PCs, Unix workstations, WS clusters and parallel computers.
EvA is used in a number of projects in cooperation with industry, e.g. in order to optimize the position of fixation tools or for motor optimization . A multimedia training course on evolutionary algorithms is developed in the project Bioinform@tik .

Autonomous Mobile Robots

Research aims at image processing, sensor fusion, navigation, path planning and the control of mobile robots here. Future service robots shall be able to recognize people and to interact intelligently with users. Our robot lab operates two mobile robots RWI B21 (Robin and Colin) by Real World Interface, Inc. with stereo cameras, 2D laser scanner, ultrasonic detectors and infrared sensors and an outdoor robot RWI ATRV-Jr.
In order to do research on artificial life 5 small robots Pioneer1 and one PioneerAT by ActivMedia, Inc. are used. After they had been modified for playing robot soccer they claimed the vice world championship at RoboCup-98.

Bioinformatics Applications

A series of application areas for bioinformatics is tested here together with partners from chemistry and biochemistry as well as biology. The BMBF research projects automated combinatorial chemistry and search and optimization of lead compounds are counted among them as well as the analysis of planar biological neural networks by means of artificial neural networks. Concerning the project Bioinform@tik teaching material is developed here for the new study course Bioinformatics.