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When forecasting the utilization of intensive care units during the corona pandemic, HLRS simulations were also involved. “This work showed that there is much more potential for high-performance computing in crisis and emergency situations, not only in the next pandemic, but also in the event of environmental disasters,” says HLRS researcher Ralf Schneider. But this requires preparatory work: The CIRCE project was born, and Schneider is the technical project manager. CIRCE stands for Computational Immediate Response Center for Emergencies. After completion of the project, it should be clear what an operational center would need and be able to do in terms of technology and organization in order to support public institutions quickly and unbureaucratically in times of crisis.
When the HLRS team determined the need in discussions with experts in authorities and ministries, many ideas arose that could be clarified using simulation. “But often there are no models,” says Schneider. “They are the prerequisite for assessing whether high-performance computers would make sense to use.” Therefore, the HLRS concentrates on cases in which there are models. For example, the analysis of an extreme Rhine flood: What would be the consequences of a dyke breach? “Simulations can be used to quickly clarify where evacuation is required and where rescue vehicles and stations can be safely positioned,” says Schneider.
The second project deals with the question of how medical technology can benefit from supercomputers. “This is the case with product development, quality or approval processes,” says Andreas Wierse, Managing Director of SICOS BW. Together with the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), the HLRS founded this company in 2010 to make it easier for small and medium-sized companies to access simulation techniques. “German medical technology is strongly characterized by medium-sized companies and is innovative,” says Wiers. Simulations offer new possibilities. In this way, the potential of new materials and components for instruments or implants can be tested. Therefore, SICOS BW founded the Solution Center CASE4Med (Computer Aided Solution Engineering for Medical). The HLRS and the Innovation and Research Center Tuttlingen at Furtwangen University are involved. The Tuttlingen area is considered a stronghold of medical technology.
The project is funded by the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of Science. A community should develop, attracted by the first case studies. The founding of an association creates the organizational basis. “The interest is great,” says Wierse. “Within the framework of CASE4Med, the exchange of information will be institutionalized and pre-competitive research will be possible.”
This article is part of a special publication in cooperation with the High Performance Computing Center Stuttgart (HLRS). Here you can find the complete picture of the science extra for download.