© RUB, Marquard

On July 15, 2026, guests from the academic and industrial communities gathered at the KIB-KON test hall to celebrate the inauguration of the new large-scale research facility CREATE and the summer festival of the Component Testing Division (KIB-KON).

Following welcoming remarks by Rector Prof. Martin Paul and Prof. Peter Mark, the new facility was officially inaugurated. During a live demonstration, guests gained insights into the fully automated robotic system. Funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG), the facility builds on the research concepts of Priority Program 2187, “Adaptive Modular Construction Methods with Flow Production Techniques—Precision Rapid Construction of the Future.” The goal is to transfer principles of industrial, digitally controlled flow production to the construction industry and further develop them under real-world conditions. In the future, the facility will also be available to SFB 2187, for example, for the qualification, condition assessment, and processing of dismantled components.

In addition to the new production facility, guests were also able to experience other robotics and augmented reality applications. The humanoid robot IIBra and the robot dog RUBy demonstrated how modern technologies can support building inspections and digital processes in the construction industry. Visitors were also able to virtually explore the large-scale research facility using VR headsets.

The inauguration was followed by the annual summer party hosted by the departments of the Institute of Structural Engineering. With summer-like temperatures, the group barbecue provided an opportunity to socialize and wind down the afternoon in a relaxed atmosphere.