This year’s ESB | Engineering Symposium at Bánki 2025 was a success

The Engineering Symposium at Bánki (ESB 2025) was held on November 11, 2025. The aim of the event was to present the latest technological and scientific research results, while strengthening academic and professional relationships.

The conference was opened by Dr. habil Tibor Farkas, Dean of our Faculty. Plenary lectures were held during the morning (Dr. Ferenc Kaiser: “David’s Fight with Goliath” – Naval Operations in the Russian-Ukrainian War, and Dr. József Kaló: Mud Huts and Data Centers – Africa’s Dynamically Growing Weight in the Global Arena).

After the plenary lectures, participants enjoyed a delicious lunch together, which provided an opportunity for personal and professional knowledge exchange. The afternoon program continued with lectures in four parallel sections: Military Science, Security, Materials Technology, and a miscellaneous English section, which could be attended in a hybrid format, both in person and online.

This year, the conference proceedings will also include the written versions of the presentations. Further information and conference publications from previous years can be found on the official conference website.

https://esb.bgk.uni-obuda.hu/


Project RUBIK – A University Student Research Initiative Reaching for Space

Students from Obuda University, the Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME), and Semmelweis University are collaborating in a joint research project as part of the REXUS/BEXUS program — a European initiative jointly organized by the European Space Agency (ESA), the German Aerospace Center (DLR), and the Swedish National Space Agency (SNSA).
This program offers university students the opportunity to send their own experimental payloads to the edge of space aboard high-altitude rockets or stratospheric balloons. Its goal is to provide young researchers with real-world experience in the design, development, and operation of space-bound systems.

A Hungarian Collaboration of the Next Generation of Space Researchers

The research project, named RUBIK, was launched with the primary academic support of Obuda University and brings together some of the most active student researchers in Hungarian space science. The project is co-led by an MSc student in Electrical Engineering from BME and an MSc student in Defense Engineering from Obuda University. The biological research direction is headed by a medical student from Semmelweis University, who also serves as the project’s biological supervisor.

What RUBIK Stands For

The name RUBIK reflects the project’s scientific focus:

RUBIK – Real-Time Understanding of Bacteriophage Interaction Kinetics and Dynamics.

The acronym signifies the project’s core objective — understanding the kinetics and dynamics of bacteriophage interactions in real time. The name is also a tribute to Ernő Rubik, symbolizing Hungarian scientific and engineering creativity.

Recognition and International Selection

The RUBIK project has been selected for the pre-selection phase of the international REXUS/BEXUS program, organized by ESA, DLR, and SNSA. As a result, the RUBIK team has been invited to present their experiment at ESA’s ESTEC Center in Noordwijk, the Netherlands, between November 25–27, 2025.

Following this phase, only 3–5 teams will be chosen to launch their experiments aboard the ESA and partners’ high-altitude rocket missions, sending their research to the very edge of space.

Scientific Goals and Background

The experiment aims to study bacteria–bacteriophage interactions in real time under microgravity conditions, with special attention to the kinetics of infection and cell lysis. The project investigates how the interaction between Escherichia coli bacteria and T7 bacteriophages changes in space.

The research builds on earlier Russian experiments conducted aboard the International Space Station (ISS), which showed that bacteriophages destroy bacteria more rapidly in microgravity over short periods, but that bacteria may develop resistance over longer exposures.Project RUBIK seeks to explore this phenomenon in greater detail through an autonomous, miniaturized, and fully automated laboratory unit, enabling precise, real-time observation of these biological processes in a near-space environment.


The Celebration of CNC Programming: Report on the 4th Bánki–Haas National Competition

In 2025, one of Hungary’s most prestigious professional events, the Bánki–Haas National CNC Programming Competition, was held for the fourth time. The event was hosted by the Faculty of Mechanical and Safety Engineering of Obuda University, Bánki Donát, with the aim of allowing engineering students to test their skills in a real industrial environment and to connect directly with the latest trends in manufacturing technology. Over the years, the competition has become a leading national forum where education, industry, and innovation meet.

Opening Ceremony and Supporters

The day began with registration and welcoming speeches. József Balogh, head of the organizing committee, and Dr. habil. Tibor Farkas, dean of the faculty, emphasized the importance of the competition in Hungarian engineering education.
The Gene Haas Foundation’s €20,000 sponsorship received special attention, as this contribution not only raised the professional standard of the event but also supported the education of future engineers.
Simon Vanmaekelbergh, representative of Haas Automation’s European Center, gave a presentation on manufacturing challenges and career opportunities, highlighting the key role of CNC programming in modern industry.
Afterwards, Dr. György Czifra, assistant professor and professional director of the competition, outlined the program and officially launched the contest.

The Online Preliminary Round

The first stage of the competition was held online, giving students from universities across the country the chance to compete remotely. Participants included:

  • Obuda University, Faculty of Mechanical and Safety Engineering
  • University of Szeged, Faculty of Engineering
  • University of Pécs, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology
  • Széchenyi István University
  • University of Debrecen
  • University of Pannonia
  • Budapest University of Technology and Economics

Based on the online results, the six best teams advanced to the in-person final round.

The Final Round

In the final, students demonstrated their professional competence through several stages:

  • Manual NC programming: contestants solved a programming challenge by hand.
  • Team presentation and machine programming: creativity and technical expertise came to the forefront.
  • CNC program error detection: the afternoon rounds tested quick problem-solving, teamwork, and technical knowledge.
  • Drawing evaluation: precision and problem-solving skills were essential in the last task.

The jury — including Dr. György Czifra — evaluated performances continuously and summarized the results during the afternoon break.

Results and Awards

At the closing ceremony, the winning teams were announced:

  1. sCAMmers (Budapest University of Technology and Economics) – First place and overall champions
  2. SZECAM Senior (Széchenyi István University) – Second place
  3. SZECAM Rookies (Széchenyi István University) – Third place

 Prizes for the top teams:

  • Tickets to the 2026 Formula 1 Hungarian Grand Prix (for 4 participants)
  • Creality CR-Scan Ferret Pro 3D scanners
  • Creality Ender 3 V3 KE and V3 SE 3D printers
  • Creality Manual Turntable accessories
  • eSUN PLA filaments (Bone White, Grey)
  • Solid Edge training courses – beginner or advanced
  • EDGECAM training – milling, turning, advanced surface milling, 5-axis programming
  • Solid Edge graduate licenses – for 4 participants
  • VIP industrial visits to partner companies:
    • Evosoft Hungary Kft. – TinkerLab and Machinum Lab tour
    • Audi Hungaria Zrt. – insight into CAM departments
    • HTM Zrt., Székesfehérvár – roundtable with designers and programmers
    • Walter Hungária Kft. – participation in Tech-Forum events
  • Gift packages and wine for all teams
  • Escape room vouchers (for 4 participants)

 Sponsors and Professional Partners

The main sponsor of the competition was Haas Automation Hungary, led by György Péntek. Several key industrial partners also contributed to the success of the event:

  • Evosoft Hungary Kft.Krisztián Kardos, Senior Lead Software Engineer
  • Enterprise GroupAttila Gyönyörű, CAM Product Line Manager
  • Walter Hungária Kft.Gábor Pusztay, Competence Manager

These companies provided not only financial support but also professional programs, training opportunities, and industrial visits as part of the prize package.

 The Role of the Gene Haas Foundation

The financial foundation of the entire event — including the closing reception — was provided by the Gene Haas Foundation, whose grant was awarded to Obuda University through an open application process. This support made it possible to host the competition at a high professional level, with a rich program and appropriate prestige.

The Significance of the Competition

The Bánki–Haas CNC Programming Competition has grown into a major national event. It is more than a contest — it is a professional forum that builds community, bringing together students, educators, and industry partners to discuss the future of manufacturing.

The event helps young engineers engage with cutting-edge technologies during their studies and prepares them for real industrial challenges. The finalists not only demonstrated their expertise but also gained invaluable experience that will shape their professional development.

The prizes — from 3D scanners and printers to international training courses and Formula 1 tickets — all aimed to motivate and inspire students to continue learning and exploring.

The strong support of the Gene Haas Foundation and the involvement of Hungarian industrial partners — including Haas Automation Hungary, Evosoft Hungary Kft., Enterprise Group, and Walter Hungária Kft. — clearly show that the collaboration between Hungarian engineering education and international industry is growing ever stronger. This partnership ensures that the engineers of tomorrow graduate not only with theoretical knowledge but also with real, hands-on experience.

The final evening’s shared dinner and informal discussions provided an excellent opportunity for participants to build connections, exchange ideas, and lay the foundation for future collaborations.

Conclusion

The 4th Bánki–Haas National CNC Programming Competition was not just about the winners — it was a memorable and professionally enriching experience for all participants. The event once again proved that Hungarian engineering students possess the skills, creativity, and determination to compete at an international level.

Acknowledgements

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all staff members of the Department of Manufacturing Technology, whose professionalism, dedication, and precision made the 4th Bánki–Haas National CNC Programming Competition possible. Their expertise ensured that every technical aspect of the event met the highest standards, offering students genuine engineering challenges.

Special thanks go to the Dean’s Office, whose staff played an essential role in organization and logistics. Their careful preparation, coordination, and ongoing support ensured the event ran smoothly and with the dignity it deserved.

The success of the competition was made possible by the combined efforts of both communities. Their cooperation and commitment are exemplary, showing how the collaboration of education, professional expertise, and institutional support can create a truly outstanding national event.

Dr. Czifra György


Recognition for Prof. Dr. Edit Ludányi-Laufer | HTE Top 50 Women in Artificial Intelligence

We are delighted to announce that Prof. Dr. Edit Ludányi-Laufer, Head of the Institute of Mechatronics and Vehicle Engineering at the Bánki Faculty of Obuda University, has been honored in the HTE (Scientific Association for Infocommunications) initiative, Top 50 Women in Artificial Intelligence.

The HTE Top 50 Women in Artificial Intelligence initiative aims to highlight and recognize exceptional women professionals whose expertise and responsible contributions are shaping the development of Artificial Intelligence in Hungary.

The list celebrates engineers, researchers, educators, and business leaders who are actively working in fields where Artificial Intelligence has a tangible impact on industry, education, and science. Beyond recognition, the initiative also seeks to foster connection and collaboration between individuals and organizations committed to the responsible and value-driven application of AI.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Prof. Dr. Edit Ludányi-Laufer on this well-deserved honor!

The First Open Day of the Autumn Semester at Bánki

The first open day of the autumn semester was a great success! We would like to thank all the high school students who chose to visit us — we hope you found plenty of exciting things to see in our workshops, and that you enjoyed listening to our lecturers and students. We also hope you left with new experiences and good memories of Bánki’s friendly atmosphere.

https://bgk.uni-obuda.hu/nyilt-napok

If you’re curious about our programs, what you can study here, and what student life at Bánki is like, make sure to register for one of our upcoming open days!
Due to ongoing renovation work, the number of available places is limited — so we encourage you to sign up as soon as possible.


A primary school and a technical school group visited Bánki last week

As part of Career Orientation Days, a primary school class and a group of students who are already completing a technical school visited the Józsefváros campus of the Bánki Faculty last week. On both visits, our staff, students and lecturers welcomed the students and gave them a presentation on career choices, our training courses, the interesting features of the Bánki Faculty, and the opportunities offered by our workshops.

You can also meet us starting in November, when we will be holding several open days. Register and attend an event to learn more about the opportunities and benefits offered by Bánki!


Future military engineers in the field!

Bánki Faculty’s Military Engineering MSc students attended the tactical exercise of the NKE HHK, where they were able to get to know up-to-date military equipment and the practical side of military operations firsthand. The experience gained in the field is a valuable addition to their engineering studies.

Within the framework of the lesson, the Military Engineering MSc students accompanied by the Dean of the Faculty, Dr. habil Tibor Farkas, participated in the tactical exercise of the Faculty of Military Science and Defence Officer Training (NKE HHK) of the National University of Public Service. During the program, students gained insight into the everyday life of tactical training, observed the execution of combat procedures and defense activities, and studied up close the use of military equipment — including combat vehicles, small arms, communications and electronic warfare equipment, and drones.

The experiences gained in the field are particularly valuable for military engineering students, as they provide an opportunity to learn about the technical, logistical, and operational aspects of military systems in a real environment. Practical experiences contribute to the development of engineering approaches and to the deepening of the application and interpretation of military technology developments.

The visit strengthens the professional cooperation between Obuda University and the NKE HHK, which supports both the development of the national defense and military industry knowledge base and practice-oriented engineering education.

Our Pneumobil team at the TechTogether+ engineering student competition

TechTogether is one of the largest engineering student competitions in Hungary, where university teams solve technical and innovation tasks set by industrial partners.

The Techtogether+ event, organized by autopro.hu on October 16, 2025 in Zsámbék, is a three-in-one event, as it includes a conference organized jointly with the Hungarian Automotive Industry Association, an industrial professional exhibition, and an engineering student competition organized jointly with the Bánki Faculty of Obuda University.

The special feature of the program is the Pneumobil skill competition, where vehicles powered by compressed air compete in performance. The PneuTech team of the Bánki Faculty will also participate in the competition, our goal is to develop the students’ practical knowledge and strengthen industrial relations.


The Alverad-Bánki International Conference on Cybersecurity and Research Development was a success

On October 15, 2025, the Alverad-Bánki International Conference on Cybersecurity and Research and Development was held for the fourth time, jointly organized by Alverad Technology Focus Kft. and the Obuda University Bánki Donát Faculty of Mechanical and Safety Engineering.

The aim of the conference, which takes place annually in a hybrid format, is to make the latest domestic and international research results available to the expert audience, and to provide an opportunity for young researchers and PhD students to gain publication experience and present the results of their thesis.

The event also aims to deepen scientific relations between lecturers and students of partner universities, as well as our colleagues.

The plenary session took place in the conference room of the Bánki Faculty at József körút, opened by Dr. Richárd Horváth, Vice-Dean for Research, and Attila Hinkel, Managing Director of Alverad Technology Focus Kft., followed by four high-quality presentations before the symposium was divided into sections. The presentations took place at 3 locations in the Bánki building and in a remote section at the Cyber ​​Islands site – which could be joined in person or online.

The following sections took place:

  • Artificial Intelligence I-II
  • Cyber ​​Defense
  • Cyber ​​Security
  • Research, Development I-IV
  • Industrial Cyber ​​Security
  • NIS2

We are very pleased that so many interesting presentations and presentations were held regarding cybersecurity. Following the conference, the publications will be published in the conference volume of the Hadmérnök journal.

We would like to thank the organizers, speakers, our colleagues, and students for their contribution, organization, and implementation.


Project no. MEC_SZ 149653 has been implemented with the support provided by the Ministry of Culture and Innovation of Hungary from the National Research, Development and Innovation Fund, financed under the MEC_24 funding scheme.


Special prize at the IV. Festetics Concours d’Elegance vintage car competition

The international IV. Festetics Concours d’Elegance vintage car and motorcycle beauty contest and exhibition was held in Keszthely between September 6-7, 2025. The special prize offered by the Bánki Faculty of Obuda University’s vintage vehicle restoration engineer training program was won by a 1934 Horch 500 Roadster. The vehicle is a real speciality with its 6.5 meters long, 8 cylinders and 3800 cm3 engine. The owner was also surprised that we chose his vehicle.

At the same time, the event also served as an excellent opportunity to promote our vintage vehicle restoration training program starting in the second semester – from February 2026; our current students presented a total of 5 of their vehicles at the program, to the great delight of the visitors.