Upgraded AI Technology in Dresden: Powering Up with a New Supercomputer

In a significant move, the Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR) and Munich's ParTec company are collaborating to build and develop a supercomputer named "Elbjuwel" in Dresden. The project's leader, Bernhard Frohwitter from ParTec AG, emphasises the importance of providing on-site computing power for close collaboration between users, machine developers, and operators.

According to Frohwitter, the absence of an in-house supercomputer can hinder a region's potential for development and industrial integration. With the "Elbjuwel", this barrier is set to be overcome, offering a platform for industry and research. Initiatives like ProKI Dresden, which supports SMEs in integrating artificial intelligence into production, with a focus on metalforming, are expected to benefit from this new platform.

Prof. Sebastian M. Schmidt, Scientific Director of HZDR, believes the platform will contribute to the training of skilled workers and support companies in mastering the challenges of digitization. The new platform will specialise in providing computing power in the areas of AI and machine learning, high-performance computing, and quantum computing.

The new platform is anticipated to advance AI technologies not just in Germany but across Europe. It is hoped that it will provide a new impetus for the development of AI technologies and strengthen Saxony's role as a leading location for AI. With the "Elbjuwel", researchers in Dresden and the surrounding area will have the opportunity to perform calculations and simulations locally in the future, reducing the need for computing power from overseas.

One application developed with the computing power from overseas is LOTTA, a ProKI Dresden demonstrator recently presented. LOTTA uses an AI system to detect and report error states in the drilling process, offering a promising solution for industries seeking to integrate AI into their production processes.

The ultimate goal is to significantly facilitate access to AI for industry, small and medium-sized enterprises, and scientific institutions, enabling technological innovations. With the "Elbjuwel" supercomputer, Germany and Europe may take a significant step towards digital sovereignty.