Institute for Photonics and Robotics (IPR) - University of Applied Sciences of the Grisons

Institute for Photonics and Robotics (IPR)

Institute at a glance

The Institute for Photonics and Robotics (IPR) has a fourfold performance mandate: teaching, applied research, consulting and further education in the areas of photonics and robotics.

Our main teaching and research areas encompass the fields of Optoelectronics, Image Processing and Applied Robotics.

Head of institute/centre
Leutenegger Tobias More about Leutenegger Tobias
Team
Meet our employees. More about Meet our employees.
Research fields
Applied Robotics
Image Processing
Optoelectronics More about the research fields
Labs
3D surface measurement More about 3D surface measurement Device Efficiency Lab More about Device Efficiency Lab EMC Test Centre More about EMC Test Centre Eye Safety Lab More about Eye Safety Lab Lighting Lab More about Lighting Lab Photonics Lab More about Photonics Lab Product Development and Laser Lab More about Product Development and Laser Lab

The team at the Institute for Photonics and Robotics focuses on the industrial application of photonics technology for gathering and evaluating information, as well as developing intelligent robots.

Our three research fields of Optoelectronics, Image Processing and Applied Robotics complement each other superbly.

We generate data using optoelectronic sensors. If these contain image sensors, the recorded data is processed further using image processing algorithms. If this recording of measurement parameters is combined with intelligent algorithms, so-called smart sensors can be created. These sensors can in turn be combined with actuator technology, drive technology, communication, navigation and energy technology to develop intelligent, autonomous and/or mobile robots.

Applied Robotics

A mobile robot can move in its surroundings, while an autonomous robot acts independently. Significant results from university-conducted research on mobile robotics are relatively young and large in number.

Image Processing

The aim of the research field of Image Processing is to develop algorithms both for classic 2D camera systems and for innovative 3D approaches such as TOF technology and to advance the cutting edge of the technology.

Optoelectronics

The research field Optoelectronics aims to develop innovative optoelectronic sensors. This includes technologies such as time-of-flight (TOF) cameras. In addition to the capturing of two-dimensional images, TOF cameras also allow for the determination of an object’s distance from the camera.

Degree programmes

The expertise of the Institute for Photonics and Robotics (IPR) is incorporated in various study and further education programmes.

Bachelor's degree Photonics

Self-driving vehicles, VR glasses, drones – many of the new technologies based on photonics are still at a fledgling stage. The study contents of the bachelor’s degree programme in Photonics provide an understanding of light-based technologies and also cover their use and further development.

Bachelor's degree Mobile Robotics

Mobile robots are flying, swimming or driving systems which autonomously complete certain tasks, for example transporting a container over the Atlantic or searching for survivors in a disaster zone. Study Mobile Robotics at the University of Applied Sciences of the Grisons.

Bachelor's degree Computational and Data Science

Data is omnipresent and it is now difficult to imagine our society being without it. You learn how to generate knowledge from data and how to supplement or replace traditional laboratory and field experiments with simulations in the fields of natural and engineering sciences while also receiving sound IT training.

Master's degree Engineering (MSE)

The Master of Science in Engineering (MSE) allows participants to specialise in numerous technical disciplines. At University of Applied Sciences of the Grisons, you can consolidate your knowledge in the field of Photonics.

Further education

Specialised courses in technology

Further education in a technical field will hone your profile and open up new career options. We offer a variety of advanced training consisting of single day courses and modules. For example, in the fields of Optoelectronics or Machine Vision/Image Processing.

Research and consulting

Research

As part of our applied research, we support product development within the industry by carrying out innovation projects and feasibility studies. Within the research focus area of Smart Sensors and Applied Robotics, we carry out research in the fields of Optoelectronics, Image Processing and Applied Robotics.

Consulting

The services we offer encompass the areas of EMC, lighting, eye safety, 3D surface measurement and device efficiency. In addition, we have access to a Photonics Lab, a Robotics Lab and a Prototype Development Lab which were designed according to the latest technical standards and can be used both for research projects and to offer services.

Forms of cooperation

There are various forms of cooperation: research projects, consulting projects or student projects. Please contact us – we are happy to support you with your projects.

Publications

The Institute for Photonics and Robotics (IPR) is represented in the media, holds presentations and releases publications. Browse through our publication database!

Publications of the Institute for Photonics and ICT

Lab: 3D surface measurement

Using optical strip light projection, the surface of any component can be recorded three-dimensionally in a contactless and highly precise manner.

Device Efficiency Lab

Provision of consulting services and performance of measurement procedures with respect to the energy efficiency of electrical devices. Additional parameters can also be addressed at the client’s request.

EMC Test Centre

Provision of consulting services and flexible performance of measurement procedures with respect to the EMC immunity and EMC emission of devices.

Eye Safety Lab

The Optoelectronic Competence Centre provides expertise and services from diverse areas as well as eye safety services.

Lighting Lab

Provision of consulting services and the performance of photometric measurement procedures relating to luminous flux, brightness, light intensity, illumination intensity, colour temperature, energy efficiency and flicker values as well as in connection with the colour rendering index.

Photonics Lab

Provision of consulting services and performance of measurement procedures for the characterisation of optoelectronic components and systems as well as for eye safety and immunity to external light sources.

Lab PROLAB

Prototype production is a decisive point in efficient product development.

Institute for Photonics and Robotics team

The employees of the Institute for Photonics and Robotics (IPR) work in the areas of Advanced and Smart Sensors, Image Processing, Applied Robotics and Optoelectronics. Get to know our team.

The Institute for Photonics and Robotics (IPR) is a member of the following organisations:

University of Applied Sciences of the Grisons
Institute for Photonics and Robotics (IPR)
Pulvermühlestrasse 57
7004 Chur
Switzerland

Phone: +41 81 286 24 24
Mail: ipr@fhgr.ch

Head of institute, Director of studies

Prof. Dr. sc. tec. Tobias Leutenegger

Phone: +41 81 286 24 19