The event opened with a journey into the past. Albin Juhász-Laczik OSB, head of the Benedictine High School in Pannonhalma, delivered an engaging presentation on the life of Ányos Jedlik, highlighting not only his brilliance as an inventor but also his entrepreneurial spirit and forward-thinking mindset: qualities that continue to inspire innovators today.
Attention then turned to the present. Researcher-inventors from ITK shared their personal journeys and how their research projects evolved into successful start-ups. András Oláh showcased how Jedlik Innováció Ltd., linked with the Info-Bionics Association (IBE), supports the development and technology transfer of ideas born at ITK. Participants also got a closer look at market-ready companies, including OptoForce’s force sensors, BrianQC quantum chemistry simulation software, Dermus’ medical ultrasound developments, Cytocast’s molecular prescreening solutions, Allonic’s prosthetic hand technology, and Analogic–Eutecus’ image-processing innovations. These presentations demonstrated that several ITK spin-offs are already active on the global stage, while others are in promising growth phases.
The conference then looked ahead to the future. Innovations emerging from ITK’s latest research attracted great interest, including an AI-based VR system for lifeguard training, an upper-limb exoskeleton supporting rehabilitation, a newly developed non-invasive blood pressure sensor, and a smart plug offering new possibilities for energy management. Other highlights included a passive baby heart-rate sensor, a generative AI-based karyotyping solution, and the LetSee app for visually impaired users.
The event received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with attendees praising ITK for providing a fascinating insight into its high-level research and innovation. Representatives from the Hungarian Intellectual Property Office and the National Innovation Agency also expressed their enthusiasm and congratulations for the results presented.
The successful conference demonstrated that projects originating at ITK are attracting increasing attention and many hold significant potential for the future. Organizers and participants alike hope that as many of these innovations as possible will reach the market, and look forward to organising the conference again next year.
