At its meeting held on the 18th June 2025 in Belgrade, the Robotics in Alpe-Adria-Danube Region (RAAD) international scientific committee decided that RAAD 2028 will be hosted by Obuda University in Budapest.
At the same session:
🔹 Prof. Dr. Péter Galambos, Director of the Antal Bejczy Center for Intelligent Robotics, was elected as a member of the international scientific committee.
🔹 Prof. Dr. József Tar, professor emeritus, was appointed to the advisory board.
The advisory board already included Prof. Dr. Imre Rudas, founding rector of Obuda University, making it three distinguished Hungarian experts—all affiliated with Obuda University—now actively contributing to RAAD leadership.
RAAD has been a key scientific network in the Central and Southeast European region for over three decades, promoting cooperation and technological advancement in robotics.
As part of a mobility program, we had the opportunity to visit Tokyo together with colleagues and students from the Antal Bejczy Centre for Intelligent Robotics, with the purpose of university visits and attending a conference. The nine-person group flew from Budapest Liszt Ferenc Airport on a China Eastern Airlines flight, departing on Sunday at noon. After a layover in Shanghai, we arrived at Tokyo Narita Airport around noon local time on Monday. Following passport and customs checks, each participant successfully obtained a Suica card for local transportation, and we then traveled by train to our accommodation. We closed the first evening with a light dinner and a short walk, after which everyone rested to start the conference’s professional program fresh the next day.
Liszt Ferenc Airport
After resting in the morning on Tuesday, we began our professional program in the afternoon at Tokyo Metropolitan University, attending the International Workshop on Community-centric Systems and Robots 2025 (IW-CcSR 2025) conference. Following the opening, Professor Dr. Péter Galambos presented how robotics and generative AI are intertwined through a research project from Obuda University. Through the exciting presentations of young Japanese and Hungarian researchers, we saw how artificial intelligence and robotics are integrated according to the latest research trends, leading to lively professional discussions during breaks. We concluded the day with a relaxed Japanese dinner, where we could also share our personal experiences.
The program of the International Workshop on Community-centric Systems and Robots 2025 (IW-CcSR 2025) conference continued on Wednesday morning at Tokyo Metropolitan University. The Wednesday session was opened by Dr. Hirooki Shibata, a young researcher from the university. He presented mathematical models of a new type of neural network, which accelerates teaching processes and allows networks to run efficiently on specific hardware environments. Following this, Tadamitsu Matsuda from Juntendo University gave a talk on the benefits of integrating various medical rehabilitation methods into engineering systems. His presentation particularly highlighted the possibilities of interdisciplinary collaboration between the universities present at the conference. The program continued with presentations from young researchers from Obuda University and Tokyo Metropolitan University. These presentations offered exciting insights into the latest research directions, especially in combining robotics and artificial intelligence to solve complex problems – in both everyday life and various industrial sectors. One of the closing talks of the conference was given by Ryota Yamada from OMRON Corporation. He demonstrated how next-generation AI solutions and 5G technologies can facilitate faster data capture and processing and open up new possibilities for enhancing industrial process efficiency. The coffee and lunch breaks, as well as the informal conversation with cakes and soft drinks, provided excellent opportunities for participants to exchange ideas, share experiences, and discuss the foundations of methodological collaborations. In the evening, the BARK team concluded the day with a ramen dinner, and we visited Tokyo’s famous shopping district, Akihabara, to pick up souvenirs. However, since it was already quite late, most shops were closed, and after a brief look around, we returned to our accommodation.
Tokyo Metropolitan University Hino Campus
Akihabara shopping street
On Thursday, we spent the day visiting the laboratories at Tokyo Metropolitan University, where we had the chance to explore the work of various research groups. In the Kubota lab, we learned about the “Living Lab” system developed by the “Intelligent Robotics Laboratory,” which offers cognitive and motion analysis technologies for use in hospitals. In the Wada lab, we saw various service robots in action, including automated shelf-fillers, cleaning systems, and therapeutic robots designed for the elderly. In the Shimokawara lab, we discovered projects focused on integrating intelligent systems. The Takesue lab presented robotic solutions for aviation and underwater transportation. In the afternoon, we visited the TLL and Room J spaces, where various interdisciplinary research directions were showcased. The second half of the day was spent at the Minami-Osawa campus, where we explored new projects in the Yamamoto and Kubota labs. We ended the day by visiting the Asakusa market and the famous Senso-ji Buddhist temple in central Tokyo, gaining insight into Japan’s cultural heritage.
Kubota Lab
On Friday, we were hosted by Yoshimi Takashi’s students at the Shibaura Institute of Technology’s Toyosu campus, some of whom had visited us the previous year. During the meeting, the Japanese students presented their current research findings. We saw candle-molding techniques, robot controls, and explored the modern Toyosu campus building, where we visited several labs. Among the robots showcased were mobile robot platforms, including those specifically designed for human-robot interactions, as well as robotic arm systems that can efficiently handle textiles. At the end of the visit, as in the previous days, we also presented our research topics and thanked our hosts for their warm welcome with small gifts. In the evening, we explored iconic landmarks in Tokyo: we visited the Rainbow Bridge from the Odaiba waterfront, then immersed ourselves in the bustling atmosphere of Shibuya and crossed the famous Shibuya crossing.
Odaiba Rainbow Bridge in the distance
Shibaura Institute of Technology Campus
On Saturday, our group visited Kamakura, where we first explored the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. The traditional Japanese architecture and religious symbols, such as the ritual hand-washing basin, created a unique atmosphere at the site. In the nearby Komachi street, we tasted Japanese street food and bought souvenirs, including crispy meatballs and fish-shaped vanilla-filled sweets. After that, we visited the famous Great Buddha statue (Kōtoku-in), where the incense burners and the peaceful atmosphere offered an especially authentic experience. In the afternoon, we traveled to Enoshima Island by a nostalgic train. Upon arrival, we took a short break by the ocean, where, despite our efforts, we had to share our lunch with the predatory birds circling the beach. We then took a walk to the Enoshima Shrine at the top of the hill, and descended to the rocky shore where we found small crabs and shells. Some of us were even caught by larger waves while standing at the edge of the rocks. Although the weather wasn’t perfectly clear, we could still see the silhouette of Mount Fuji through the mist in the distance. We concluded the day by returning to the beach, where we spent the late afternoon swimming.
Komachi Street
Kōtoku-in
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine Entrance
Enoshima Shrine Entrance
Enoshima shore
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
On our group’s last full day in Tokyo, there was no joint program, so everyone had the freedom to organize their own day. In the morning, a few of us started by visiting the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building observation deck, followed by a walk and photos in the nearby Yoyogi park. One person ventured out alone towards the park, exploring the city along the way and stopping by the Japanese parliament building. Three other group members spent the first part of the day visiting Tokyo’s photography specialty stores, one of whom made a purchase and went on an independent walk to try out the new camera. Later, they joined the others in the park, so almost everyone met during the morning. Afterwards, the group split into smaller groups again: some went shopping, while others continued sightseeing. Lunch was taken at various places. Some chose a ramen restaurant popular with locals, while others dined at Japanese fast food chains like Burger King or McDonald’s. In the evening, several people enjoyed themselves in an arcade, including one who played on a drumming simulator, while others walked or exercised, for example, running around the Imperial Palace park. Dinner was again in smaller, self-organized groups at different restaurants.
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Office
On the final day with the BARK team, we split into smaller groups to explore what matched our personal interests and time constraints. In the morning, some of us visited the Ueno Zoo park, where we explored much of the area, including the outer park, the Shinobazuno Pond, and the museums located on the park grounds, including the Tokyo National Museum. Unfortunately, the zoo was closed on Monday, so we couldn’t see the animals. After that, continuing north through the Taito district, we reached the Yanaka Ginza shopping street, where we found souvenirs and other products at affordable prices. Meanwhile, the other half of the team also picked up their remaining souvenirs and visited the nearby Extinct Media Museum. Our return trip was smooth, with our flight departing from Haneda Airport at 8 PM Tokyo time, and we arrived in Budapest at 7 AM the next morning. We express our sincere gratitude to the University’s Mobility Office for organizing the trip and to Professor Dr. Péter Galambos for coordinating the program. A special thanks to Kubota Sensei from TMU and the SIT team. We had the privilege to attend extremely exciting and educational presentations and fondly remember the opportunity to explore Tokyo and its surroundings during our free time.
On the morning of February 20, 2025, we had the pleasure of welcoming 20 enthusiastic students from Tamási Áron High School to our university as part of the Career Orientation Day. The aim of the program was to provide high school students with a first-hand experience of the opportunities available in higher education and to give them insight into the scientific and technological work carried out at our institution.
The visit began with an engaging career orientation lecture, during which Tamás Beleznay introduced students to various professional paths and career opportunities. The session was interactive, allowing participants not only to listen but to actively engage in discussions, ask questions, and receive personalized advice regarding their future studies and career choices.
As the morning continued, the students visited the IROB Robotics Laboratory, where they had the chance to explore the innovative research projects conducted at our university. In addition to learning about ongoing projects, they also gained a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities students face while working in a research lab. They were introduced to the latest robotics developments and got a taste of what it feels like to be part of real scientific research.
The final stop of the program was the IT Evolution Exhibition, where the group embarked on an exciting time-travel journey through the world of informatics. The exhibition allowed students to explore the displayed artifacts at their own pace, showcasing the key milestones in the development of computing—from its earliest days to the present. From vintage computers to cutting-edge technology, they encountered fascinating exhibits that provided a comprehensive overview of the field’s incredible advancements over the decades.
Throughout the visit, students not only gained valuable information but also acquired first-hand experiences about university life and scientific work. We hope that this inspiring day will help guide them in their career choices and that many of them will return to us as university students in the future!
Obuda University generated significant interest at this year’s 25th Educatio Exhibition with its central booth and a wide range of programs. Thousands of visitors completed the university’s higher education questionnaires and actively participated in various activities offered by its faculties. Prospective students were primarily interested in academic programs, practice-oriented education, scholarships, and dormitory opportunities. The Obuda University booth also featured interactive demonstrations, including e-sports games, holograms, and alternative-powered race cars.
The Antal Bejczy Centre for Intellignet Robotics also attracted considerable attention at the exhibition, showcasing two of its robots – the CruzR social robot and the Unitree GO2 quadruped robot. The latter, in particular, was extremely popular, with many visitors eager to interact with it and inquire about its operation. The demonstration aimed to bring robotics technology closer to young visitors and highlight IROB’s research and development activities.
On Thursday, during the Educatio event, Prof. Dr. Péter Galambos, Vice-Rector for Innovation at Obuda University and Director of BARK, delivered a presentation at the Educatio+ conference. In his talk, he showcased the university’s innovation ecosystem, which strongly supports research, development, and innovation projects, with a special focus on corporate collaborations. The audience gained insight into the university’s innovation-driven operations and explored several exciting research projects. The presentation was enriched with engaging videos and behind-the-scenes insights, providing a glimpse into how university-industry collaborations come to life in practice.
As part of one of the world’s most significant science policy conferences, the World Science Forum, the Science Expo 2024 was held from November 21 to 23, organized by the Hungarian Ministry of Culture and Innovation. The event took place at the Museum of Fine Arts, where Obuda University’sAntal Bejczy Center for Intelligent Robotics and BioTech Research Center successfully represented the university. The expo aimed to present the outstanding achievements of Hungarian science, research, and talent development in an accessible and visually engaging way to a broad audience. Several renowned universities and research institutes co-organized the event, highlighting the cooperation and collaboration within the scientific community.
Obuda University’s goal at the event was to showcase its latest scientific and technological advancements and provide an opportunity for those interested in science to explore the newest innovations. From the IROB Lab, the SlideBot robot, capable of handling pathological slides, demonstrated one application of robotics in medicine. Meanwhile, from the BioTech Research Center, the PathoVR system (www.pathovr.com), a tool used in digital pathology, was exhibited. PathoVR enables interactive viewing of pathological samples in a VR environment, and visitors had the opportunity to try the system live.
During the three-day event, a large number of visitors stopped by our stand, from the youngest to the elderly. We were particularly pleased to collaborate with the teams of Semmelweis University and the National Institute of Oncology to present our developments. Continuous presentations and panel discussions held in various rooms of the museum further enhanced the quality of the event.
The highlight of the event was undoubtedly the lecture by Nobel laureate Ferenc Krausz, held on Friday evening. The talk attracted immense interest and drew a large audience.
On Friday evening, a gala dinner provided participants with an opportunity for informal discussions and exchanges of experiences. The event was a success overall, and our university proudly represented itself at this prestigious conference.
We extend our thanks to everyone who visited our stand and showed interest in the technologies we presented. We look forward to participating in similarly inspiring events in the future, where we can showcase our latest developments and jointly promote scientific progress.
Prof. Dr. József Kövecses, professor at the Department of Mechanical Engineering at McGill University and head of the Applied Dynamics Group at the Center for Intelligent Machines (CIM), delivered a seminar at the Antal Bejczy Center for Intelligent Robotics of Obuda University on November 19, 2024. During the event, the professor presented his research focus and latest advances in the field of applied dynamics. The lecture primarily addressed recent developments in the study of dynamical systems and their diverse practical applications.
The main topic of the presentation was the advanced modeling and control methodologies of dynamical systems, with particular emphasis on robotics applications. The lecture provided a detailed explanation of how the behavior of complex mechanical systems can be accurately modeled, as well as the methods to make control processes more efficient and stable. These research results are critically important for real-time robot control and for adapting to rapidly changing, unpredictable environmental conditions, where fast and reliable decision-making is essential.
The presentation also addressed the development of haptic systems, and the modeling and simulation methods used in these technologies. These systems enable force feedback, which significantly enhances the quality of interactions between humans and robots. During the seminar’s discussion segment, the applications of haptic technology in medical robotics were explored in depth, particularly in the area of robotic-assisted surgery.
The lecture, presented in a clear and scientifically grounded manner, demonstrated how these fundamental research results are integrated into practical applications. It also highlighted that the modeling and optimization of dynamical systems play a key role not only in robotics but also in the development of industries, medical technology, and other research areas. For the participating researchers and students, the seminar fostered discussions that were valuable for their own research and projects, as the newly introduced methods opened opportunities for new solutions and perspectives.
The Governor of Gunma Prefecture, Yamamoto Ichita, along with a business delegation and representatives from the city of Takasaki, recently visited the Antal Bejczy Centre for Intelligent Robotics at Obuda University. The visit was organized by EIT Health and aimed to learn about international best practices.
Governor Yamamoto enthusiastically shared his impressions on his blog: “Obuda University’s Robotics Center is at the forefront of robotics research, both in Hungary and internationally. It is involved in numerous European research projects and international scientific partnerships, standing out as a member of EIT. Their work in artificial intelligence and automation technologies is particularly commendable. During our visit, the researchers presented five distinct projects, among which the agricultural AI applications seemed especially promising for implementation in Gunma Prefecture. The dynamic presence of young researchers was truly inspiring, especially since this energy is unfortunately a ‘scarce resource’ at Japanese universities.”
Prof. Dr. Péter Galambos commented on the visit: “The delegation was looking for international best practices that they could apply at home. We welcomed a highly engaged and active team who gained insights into the research conducted at the Antal Bejczy Centre for Intelligent Robotics, the startup ideas stemming from it, and the business model of Initium Ltd.”
The delegation was introduced to Obuda University’s research and innovation initiatives by Prof. Dr. Péter Galambos, Vice-Rector for Innovation, and Prof. Dr. Tamás Haidegger, CEO of Initium Ltd.
On October 22, a delegation from Times Higher Education (THE), one of the most prestigious and reliable global data providers in higher education, visited Obuda University. The delegation, led by CEO Paul Howarth, was in Hungary at the invitation of the Ministry of Culture and Innovation. According to Prof. Dr. Levente Kovács, Rector of Obuda University, the criteria used in the THE rankings play a significant role not only in comparing various institutions but also in shaping medium- and long-term visions and strategies.
The Times Higher Education World University Rankings is one of the most recognized lists of university rankings, comparing institutions worldwide based on education, research environment, research quality, industry links, and international outlook. The THE delegation was invited to Hungary by Balázs Hankó, Minister for Culture and Innovation, as part of a program that included visits to various universities, including Obuda University.
Prof. Dr. Levente Kovács highlighted that being ranked in THE is already a significant achievement for any institution. In 2021, Obuda University made its first appearance in the rankings, placing within the 1001-1200 range. He emphasized that this was already considered a success for the university. However, the results published on October 9 of this year show that the university has advanced two tiers, now ranked within the 601-800 range. “This is a tremendous honor for us, as nearly 3,000 universities were evaluated, and we have now managed to rise to the top both nationally and regionally!” the Rector emphasized. The most significant progress was made in the indicators measuring research quality, where Obuda University ranks first among the V4 countries. Prof. Dr. Levente Kovács also reported that he discussed with Paul Howarth the steps that led to the university’s recently published achievements.
In addition to the Rector, the university was represented by Botond Fehér, Director-General for Financial Affairs, Prof. Dr. Enikő Maior, Vice-Rector for Education, Dr. Viktória Sugár, Vice-Rector for Sustainability and Strategic Developments, Dr. Zsuzsanna Csepeli, Head of the Rector’s Office, and Emese Baranyi, Head of the International Relations Office. The THE delegation included John Gill, THE’s Editor and Chief Content Officer, Vicky Irwin, Senior Director, Magdalena Marzec, Regional Director for the UK and Europe, Yemi Adeshiyan, Managing Director of Global Events, and Mariann Veronika Nagy, Ministerial Advisor.
Following the meeting, the delegation visited the university’s Robotics Laboratory at the University Research and Innovation Center.
On October 15, a delegation from Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) visited Obuda University. The delegation, led by Dr. Seong Keun Kim, was welcomed by Prof. Dr. Péter Galambos, Vice-Rector for Innovation, on behalf of Rector Prof. Dr. Levente Kovács. The discussions on collaboration were attended by Prof. Dr. Enikő Maior, Vice-Rector for Education, Erzsébet Veres, International Education Advisor, and Dr. Péter Galambos, Vice-Dean for Research.
During the meeting, Prof. Dr. Péter Galambos delivered a presentation outlining the history, current activities, and future goals of Obuda University. He emphasized that the university strives to deepen its international relations, providing students with more diverse opportunities.
The Pohang delegation, led by POSTECH President Dr. Seong Keun Kim, included Junki Ahn, Director of International Relations, Yujin Kim, Assistant Manager for International Relations, and Sungmin Park, Vice President for External Relations. In his presentation, Vice President Park introduced POSTECH’s activities, highlighting the importance of close collaboration with industry, universities, and research institutes, which greatly contribute to the practical application of their research results.
The Korean representatives expressed their strong desire to establish a long-term partnership between the two institutions. President Kim also noted that he would welcome the establishment of student exchange programs between the universities. In this regard, he invited representatives of Obuda University to visit Pohang to continue discussions aimed at laying the groundwork for shared goals.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Vice-Rector Galambos gave the delegation a tour of the University’s Research and Innovation Center (EKIK), where they visited the robotics lab at.
About POSTECH: Founded in 1986, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) aims to educate selected talented students to become global leaders of the future, equipped with high levels of knowledge and strong moral character, all through excellent education. Recently, the university was ranked 2nd in the world in the Times Higher Education (THE) “2024 Best Small Universities in the World” ranking and is currently ranked 151st in the global university ranking. POSTECH focuses on providing versatile and specialized education to foster creative, ethical intellectuals and aims to become a world-class university through the continuous expansion of cooperation between industry and academia.
In the framework of a mini-symposium, the 4th generation da Vinci Xi robotic surgical system was introduced, thanks to SofMedica Kft., at the University Research and Innovation Center’s Antal Bejczy Center for Intelligent Robotics, for research purposes.
The symposium focused on the research and clinical application of robotic surgery in Hungary. The fourth-generation da Vinci robot was brought to Obuda University for a short period of time as part of a “win-win” collaborative research project, during which surgical stress, fatigue, and ergonomics will be examined. In addition, there are also plans for future development, as explained by Prof. Dr. Tamás Haidegger, a researcher at the University Research and Innovation Center (EKIK), who gave a presentation titled “Surgical Robotics from an Engineering Perspective.” He recalled that, upon the request of Prof. Dr. Imre Rudas, the founding rector of the university, Hungary’s first medical robotics laboratory was established about 12 years ago, which has since become a regionally significant center. Under the leadership of current rector Prof. Dr. Levente Kovács, EKIK enjoys central support, enabling continuous growth in areas that represent radical innovation.
He emphasized that the university’s leadership has set a strong course, focusing on robotics, artificial intelligence, medical technology, cybersecurity, smart cities, smart infrastructure, and renewable energy sources. At the Antal Bejczy Center for Intelligent Robotics, led by Prof. Dr. Péter Galambos, these areas are approached from an applied perspective. “Ten years ago, an invitation-based tender led to the acquisition of the first-generation da Vinci surgical robot with a research system (DVRK) for the robotics lab. Today, fifth-generation robots are in use worldwide, yet the basic concept remains unchanged. This gives us the opportunity to make advancements on an earlier platform with our lecturers, talented researchers, and students, contributing to the work of leading research institutions globally,” Prof. Dr. Tamás Haidegger stated.
Dr. Zsombor Zrubka highlighted that the symposium provides an excellent opportunity to connect researchers, junior scientists, and medical professionals. He added, “For the researchers at Obuda University, it is crucial that engineering knowledge be utilized through the collaboration between industry and academia. Supporting young talent is a top priority for the university. We welcome interested and talented faculty members, researchers, students, and colleagues who may find the dynamic institutional environment motivating.”
As an invited guest from Semmelweis University, Prof. József Sándor gave an overview of the era of autonomous and robotic surgery.
Prof. Attila Szijártó presented robotic surgery from a surgical perspective.
Adelina Misi, representing the distributor SofMedica, illuminated the topic from a business standpoint.
The da Vinci Xi robotic surgical system is used in gynecology, urology, abdominal surgery, and oncology in several Hungarian healthcare institutions. Using this system, surgeons operate with four robotic arms that offer a greater range of motion than the human wrist. The system represents the highest level of minimally invasive surgical techniques, with several advantages, including faster wound healing, shorter hospital stays, increased surgical efficiency, and precision. Surgeons can see the surgical area in 3D with up to ten times magnification, allowing for highly accurate procedures. There are currently eight such robots in various Hungarian hospitals, where they are used daily for surgical procedures.
