Artificial intelligence for AFM

Autonomus AFM is no longer a dream.

An autonomous AFM does more than collect measurements. It generates actionable insights, runs unattended around the clock, and delivers reliable, high-quality data with every experiment.

Built on Nanosurf’s long tradition of innovation, DriveAFM is designed for researchers advancing artificial intelligence, machine learning, and laboratory automation.

Fully motorized operation
DriveAFM is fully motorized, enabling complete control of system functions without physical interaction.

Python API
Every core system function is mapped into Python, giving users the flexibility to script and automate the entire workflow.

AI-ready context
Drawing on the expertise of our Applications team, Nanosurf provides context files for agentic coding to help users start writing scripts faster. These include best practices, definitions, operating modes, hardware-specific instructions, and the key information an AI agent needs to begin controlling the AFM immediately.

Autonomous framework
This framework serves as the equivalent of an MCP server for a Nanosurf instrument. For scientists, it provides the structure needed to build autonomous workflows without getting bogged down in signal routing or pipeline management. For AI developers, it offers a strong foundation for creating custom autonomous solutions.

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Levels of AFM Autonomy

level of autonomy

AFM autonomy can be described across six levels using SAE J3016 as a reference framework, adapted from the automotive industry

Level 0: The user performs every task manually, from mounting the cantilever to adjusting the resonance frequency and selecting the approach speed.

Level 1: Some tasks are automated. For example, the system can perform a frequency sweep and select the appropriate approach speed, but it still requires human interaction to adjust the laser.

Level 2: Most individual tasks are automated, allowing the user to focus more on the science. However, the system still requires continuous supervision.

Level 3: Under stable conditions, the system can operate independently for defined routines, such as executing a queue of measurements.

Level 4: The system’s operation is fully scripted, and known issues have been mapped. However, if an unexpected issue occurs, the system cannot recover on its own.

Level 5: The AFM independently decides what to measure, how to measure it, and how to recover from issues without human intervention.

Zoom into the Future with DriveAFM

Move towards autonomous AFM with the most innovative AFM technology by Nanosurf

DriveAFM represents a Level 3.5 system, combining full motorization and scriptability through its versatile Studio software with the flexibility for users to define what to measure and how to measure it.

For industrial environments, Alphacen 300 Drive extends DriveAFM technology to Level 4 with fully scripted operation and anticipated issues mapped in advance, enabling a more automated and controlled workflow.

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Sidewall Metrology brochure download

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