Press Releases

How can highly complex climate data be made usable in such a way that it offers cities real assistance in planning climate-resilient infrastructure? FOCAL, an EU project coordinated by the Fraunhofer Institute for Computer Graphics Research IGD, shows how modern technologies such as AI and high-performance computing can serve the needs of local authorities. In Constance, one of the pilot city administrations, a digital toolbox for data-based climate adaptation is currently being developed in close collaboration between researchers and local government officials.

The Fraunhofer Institute for Computer Graphics Research IGD today introduced next-generation augmented reality binoculars to the public at an inaugural ceremony on the cliffs of Nienhagen. Visitors enjoyed an impressive view of the Baltic Sea and took a virtual dive into one of Europe’s most exciting research infrastructures, the Digital Ocean Lab.

The Fraunhofer Institute for Computer Graphics Research IGD has a new leader: Matthias Unbescheiden has taken over as the new director of the research institute in Darmstadt. He plans to specifically increase dialogue with science and research, business and industry and the public sector in order to drive further advances in transferring research findings into practice.

Today’s ground-breaking ceremony marked the official start of construction work on the new research building for the Fraunhofer Institute for Computer Graphics Research IGD in Rostock. The aim is to create modern research infrastructures that will consolidate the innovative strength of the region and further intensify collaboration between science and industry in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.

To unlock the potential of digital solutions for uses in healthcare, the solutions need to be suitable for real-world practice and fit seamlessly into existing processes and workflows. That is the only way they can ease the burden on healthcare workers. At the same time, the field needs trustworthy AI systems that ensure secure exchanges of sensitive health data — across different sectors, without data protection and privacy risks and with full control for patients. Eight Fraunhofer institutes will be jointly presenting solutions to these challenges at the DMEA 2025 trade show, held in Berlin from April 8 to 10, 2025. The researchers will be present at Booth D-109 in Hall 2.2, where they will use exhibits and demonstrators to pro-vide exciting glimpses of the health IT of the future and will also be available to talk with at-tendees.

Due to its highly sensitive nature, health data must be secure, but it must also be easy to use. Patients and healthcare professionals alike need solutions that allow them to control who has access to what information. Fraunhofer IGD has the solution. At DMEA in Berlin, the institute will present its latest research findings on secure digital medical twins at booth D-109 in hall 2.2.

The shortage of skilled labor is having a negative effect across the entire economy, from the IT sector through to healthcare. The Fraunhofer Institute for Computer Graphics Research IGD has developed a range of technologies such as 3D planning tools, digital twins and visual control centers and applied them in practice, where they have been proven to boost the efficiency of skilled workers and initiatives towards a better qualified workforce. Analysis conducted by Prognos AG shows the great potential for jobs in Germany that can still benefit from these technologies.

Can 3D scanning be as easy as traditional 2D scanning? The Fraunhofer Institute for Computer Graphics Research has the answer: Its robot-assisted solution enables fully automated and highly precise 3D scanning – without the need to spend time teaching the robot. Using intelligent dynamic trajectory algorithms, the system can digitize objects to within 10 microns. Users benefit from the ability to create complete 3D models of objects and components with virtually no user interaction – ideal for industrial and research applications.

The Fraunhofer Institute for Computer Graphics Research IGD in Rostock hosted personalities from politics and science today to discuss the latest developments in the field of Smart Farming. In addition to Federal Minister of Research Cem Özdemir, representatives from the federal and state governments were also present at the exchange, including Parliamentary State Secretary Claudia Müller from the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture. From the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Bettina Martin, the Minister for Science, Culture, Federal and European Affairs, participated in the exchange. The focus was on digital technologies that promote sustainable and resource-efficient agriculture.

The Fraunhofer Institute for Computer Graphics Research IGD is expanding its commitment to environmental and climate research with the opening of a new project office in Greifswald. The official opening marks an important step in the further collaboration with the University of Greifswald and the renowned Greifswald Mire Centre (GMC). A particular focus is on the VALPEATS research project, which is dedicated to the sustainable use and protection of peatlands.