Digital future for geotechnical laboratory data: efficient, structured, and secure

The Soil Mechanics Laboratory at Graz University of Technology conducts both research-driven and service-oriented investigations on samples of unconsolidated rock. The full range of geotechnical testing techniques is covered, enabling the determination of index properties as well as strength and stiffness parameters of the subsurface. Furthermore, continuous optimisation and adaptation of the equipment and evaluation methodology are carried out, based on current research findings. At present, test data are stored on a project-by-project basis, which makes comprehensive, structured usage difficult. This limitation is particularly challenging with regard to research projects integrating artificial intelligence or developing new correlations. Given the increasing degree of digitalisation and new possibilities through AI, a holistic approach to data storage is desirable—not only from a scientific perspective, such as for the development of innovative correlations, but also for practical applications like the targeted definition of investigation programmes.

Against this background, the Institute of Soil Mechanics, Foundation Engineering and Numerical Geotechnics at Graz University of Technology is seeking a software solution that ensures structured and sustainable archiving of laboratory results. The desired solution should allow for the digital recording of newly generated test data, as well as the integration of existing datasets, and be seamlessly compatible with established workflows. Moreover, TU Graz places emphasis on flexible adaptation options, enabling responses to future changes in standards or new investigation methods.

The database intended for data storage should also allow for anonymisation of datasets, so that they can be made available for research purposes in accordance with open-access principles. In this context, integration with the TU Graz repository is envisaged.

With this IÖB Challenge, the Soil Mechanics Laboratory at Graz University of Technology is looking for a solution to capture soil mechanics laboratory tests, enabling their structured and anonymized storage. The digital solution should be usable both as a smartphone app—iOS and Android—and in the browser, to ensure maximum flexibility in the choice of devices. The entire process steps of a laboratory project should be executable to simplify data entry. Solutions are sought that can easily and efficiently integrate the recording and input of test data, as well as the subsequent derivation of key values and parameters. Additionally, it should be possible to independently adjust templates, forms, and evaluation methods to changing conditions (e.g., adaptation of standards or test procedures), as well as to implement new test series and investigation methods without programming skills.

The following steps of a laboratory project should be addressed:

• Request by clients or tendering
• Order receipt including derivation of the test program
• Resource allocation and scheduling (personnel and equipment) by the test supervisor
• Simple selection for sample definition, determination of investigation areas, and selection of samples by the test supervisor
• Ability to record photo documentation throughout the entire project period, at different test phases and work steps
• Data entry during test execution—input based on existing analog blank forms
• Import of *.csv data from automated test devices—for example, force-displacement measurements
• Project progress display: Dashboard with information on individual tests, projects, and overall utilization
• Semi-automated evaluation of test data, including the possibility for post-processing and incorporating comments into the evaluation (see appendix)
• Compilation of test data in the form of overview documents (see appendix)
• Generation of summary reports—interim reports and final reports
• Automated storage of all test results—as anonymized AGS data set
• Provision of data in digital form for clients and customers

When submitting your solution, please observe the mandatory conditions provided for download. For an insight into a current soil report, including the standards used, please refer to the laboratory report provided in the download area.

Non-goals:

• Solutions that can only integrate existing data or only store new data—the integration of both types of data is desired
• Solutions that only focus on AI-based data evaluation—the solution must include data capture during test execution

Take advantage of this opportunity to showcase your innovative approaches. Graz University of Technology is looking for companies or cooperation partners that offer scalable, workflow-integratable, and AI-supported solutions for software-based data collection of geotechnical laboratory test results. Companies can submit their proposals via the online form by 01 April 2026 :

Description
Please focus particularly on how your technical solution will contribute to achieving the desired results. Describe the overall approach of your solution, its functionality, and explain how you will address ongoing support and training requirements in addition to technical implementation.

Your description should align with the evaluation criteria and the stated requirements. If you are unable to realize certain functions, please address this specifically in your submission. Convince us with clear use cases, key metrics, and, if possible, references.

Summary of Added Value

Highlight your unique selling proposition and key advantages! What makes your solution especially innovative? What sets you apart?

Confidential Information (for the jury only)

Use the technical information provided and indicate whether you can meet these requirements. Give us an impression of the approximate financial scope of your proposal. This helps the client to plan the procurement project properly from the outset. Feel free to provide this information with reference to a previous project.

This information can be submitted confidentially through the platform. You may enter additional information in this text field that you wish to share exclusively with the project managers. Alternatively, you can send a PDF by email to the challenge moderators.

You will also need a cover image. This serves as your visual showcase in the overview of submissions for this challenge.

Optionally, you may also attach a file. This file should complement, but not replace or repeat, the text entered in the form fields. Use the file attachment, for example, for graphics.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Submissions as part of a consortium are possible. Please keep your submission concise (guideline: maximum 10-12 presentation slides or 4-5 letter-sized pages). This challenge is part of a market exploration. Therefore, there is no need to prepare specially developed designs or feasibility studies for this occasion.