Crane Conference Bochum 2026 – ROTEC brings AI to rope testing.
The Bochum Crane Conference 2026 impressively demonstrated how much the industry is currently changing and simultaneously developing further.
On March 16 and 17, 2026, experts from science, industry and practice met at Ruhr University Bochum to discuss current developments and set new impulses.
The Bochum Crane Conference 2026 is one of the most important events in the field of crane and conveyor technology, as it combines research with practical application.
At the same time, it offers a platform for exchange between universities, manufacturers and operators, so that new ideas can be directly put into practice.
Three universities as strong partners
The event is traditionally supported by three renowned universities: the Ruhr University Bochum, the Technical University of Dresden and the Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg.
This close collaboration ensures that both scientific findings and practical experience are combined.
This is precisely why an environment is created in which innovations are not only presented but also critically discussed. Furthermore, participants benefit from a broad range of topics, from design and automation to maintenance and repair.
Megatrend AI in crane technology
A central theme of the Bochum 2026 crane conference was the use of artificial intelligence. Under the overarching theme “Megatrend AI – Will cranes soon develop and operate themselves?”, opportunities, limitations, and concrete applications were examined in detail.
The results showed that while AI opens up new possibilities, it still needs to be used in combination with experience and engineering know-how.
On the one hand, intelligent systems can optimize processes, but on the other hand, expert evaluation remains indispensable.
ROTEC Presentation: AI in Non-Destructive Rope Testing
A special contribution came from ROTEC. Our colleague Dr. Martin Wehr presented the lecture “How artificial intelligence supports non-destructive rope testing” and provided exciting insights into current developments.
The focus was on how AI-based analyses can help interpret measurement data more quickly and accurately. At the same time, it was demonstrated how patterns can be identified in large datasets and how this can provide early indications of potential damage.
Artificial intelligence thus supports traditional non-destructive testing, rather than replacing it. This improves both the reliability of the results and the efficiency of the testing processes.
Practice and research in direct exchange
The conference in Bochum once again impressed with its close connection between theory and practice. In addition to scientific presentations, real-world applications and experience reports were also presented.
This gave participants not only new insights but also concrete approaches for their own daily work. In addition, numerous discussions took place, which further deepened the professional exchange and opened up new perspectives.
Innovation through collaboration
The event made it clear that innovation arises particularly when different perspectives come together. While companies like ROTEC develop new innovations, users contribute their practical experience.
The importance of this collaboration is particularly evident in the field of rope testing. Only through the combination of research, experience, and modern technology can sustainable solutions be developed.
Crane conference Bochum 2026 as a source of inspiration
The Bochum Crane Conference 2026 once again demonstrated the dynamic development of the industry. At the same time, it became clear that topics such as artificial intelligence, digital twins, and condition monitoring continue to gain importance.
For ROTEC, participation was therefore a valuable opportunity to present current developments and at the same time to take away new impulses from science and practice.
ROTEC – we make ropes safe.
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