by Anne-Kathrin Siemers (Central Laboratory for Chemical Analysis) and Gunnar Weidt (University Library)
The new equipment database of the Hamburg University of Technology: Transparency on a new level.
Hamburg University of Technology has introduced another tool to promote scientific collaboration and transparency: an equipment database integrated into the TORE research information system. This system offers advantages for internal and external stakeholders, facilitates the use of specialised equipment and promotes the visibility of Hamburg University of Technology as a research-intensive institution.
The Technical University uses the equipment database to map its large-scale equipment for research and innovative applications. These include many others:
- Electron microskopes for high-resolution material analyses in the electron microscopy operating unit,
- Logistics robots used in automation and process optimisation,
- Mass spectrometers with substance class libraries of the Central Laboratory for chemical analyses,
- The Institute of Fluid Dynamics and Ship Theory uses the wind tunnel for flow analyses and aerodynamic tests.
These devices not only offer researchers internal access to the latest technology, but are also available in part for collaborations with external partners.
Findability of large-scale equipment
The equipment database makes the University of Technology’s large-scale equipment transparent and easy to find for various target groups. The system describes each registered device in detail, including its technical specifications and potential areas of application. This enables external co-operation partners to find out which resources are available for joint projects.
Support for internal collaboration
The database also simplifies internal collaboration between different institutes. The centralised availability of information helps better exploit synergies and share research resources more efficiently. Transparency and easy access to equipment promote joint projects.
DOI assignment for referenceability
One feature of the device database is the allocation of Digital Object Identifiers (DOIs) for the registered devices. DOIs allow the devices to be referenced directly in publications or research data publications. This not only makes the devices more visible, but also the scientists who operate them.
DFG device classification
The device database uses the DFG device classification to systematically and uniformly categorise the registered devices. This standardised classification facilitates the search for specific equipment and enables comparability both within the university and with other research institutions.
A preliminary Infrastructure Map of all university devices is available on the intranet.
Starting with asset accounting
The initial data in the equipment database was imported from the Technical University’s asset accounting system. This ensured that a comprehensive inventory was available, which formed the basis for further maintenance and expansion. The database contains not only the devices themselves, but also important extensions and add-on modules that are crucial for specific applications and data collection.
Visibility in the 2024 research report
For the first time, the research report of 2024 will display the devices in the database on the institute pages. This offers the institutes an additional platform to present their infrastructure and research activities and thus increase their attractiveness for cooperation partners and young researchers.
Summary of the project
The integration of the equipment database into the research information system is an important step for the Hamburg University of Technology. It not only promotes internal and external networking, but also supports the visibility of the university in the international research community. At a time when interdisciplinarity and co-operation are crucial, this system represents real added value.