University of Stuttgart and TU Bergakademie Freiberg launch new research projects

Two German research institutions have launched significant technological projects aimed at advancing automation and digitalization.

At TU Bergakademie Freiberg, the ‘AI Rocks!’ project has commenced with funding from the German Research Foundation (DFG). Over the next two years, researchers aim to digitize approximately 11,000 ultra-thin rock samples. Using high-resolution automatic microscope scanners, the project will create a 300-terabyte database linking digital images with mineral composition, origin, and structural data to improve the efficiency of raw material extraction through artificial intelligence.

In Stuttgart, the University of Stuttgart has secured approximately eight million euros in funding from the European Innovation Council (EIC) Pathfinder Challenge for two projects: SCALAR and COBRAS. Starting in November 2026, these three-year initiatives will focus on developing autonomous multi-robot collectives designed for collaborative tasks in dynamic, unstructured construction environments. The projects aim to address global housing and infrastructure needs by increasing productivity and sustainability in the construction sector.