OUR JOURNEY

A Tradition of Research, Development, and Innovation Since 1971

The Development Workshops and Laboratories (VDL) have been part of the Technical University in Zvolen since 1971, when the construction of their complex was completed – including production halls, laboratories, and administrative facilities with a total area of 8,100 m².

Throughout their history, the VDL have undergone several stages of development, always responding to the changing needs of education, research, and industrial practice. Their most dynamic period came in the 1980s, when they operated their own administrative building with a design department, drafting office, and computer center.

In 1987, the VDL Implementation Center was established, enabling the workshops to provide professional services for external clients as well. Gradually, the activities shifted toward research and development projects, prototype production, and technological innovation.

A significant modernization phase took place between 2010 and 2012, funded by EU Structural Funds. Thermal insulation of the halls, modernization of electrical installations, lighting, and skylights substantially increased the technical level of the facilities.

This was followed by a revitalization project in 2023 – 2024, focused on modernizing the woodworking and mechanical workshops. The project included extensive construction works, new flooring, electrical installations, and a complete upgrade of technological equipment, creating modern, safe, and ergonomic conditions for teaching, research, and experimental production.

Integration into the University Forest Enterprise TUZVO

Connecting Research, Practice, and Innovation in Wood Processing

Since May 1, 2023, the Development Workshops and Laboratories have been integrated into the organizational structure of the University Forest Enterprise TUZVO (VŠLP TUZVO).

This integration created an interconnected system of semi-operational units covering the entire wood processing chain – from forest cultivation, harvesting, and primary processing to the production of final products.

The aim of this integration is to strengthen the link between research, education, and practice.

Today, the VDL represent a modern technological center of the university, providing a platform for:

• research and development in the field of wood processing,
• experimental production and testing of new products,
• practical training for students of technical and wood-related disciplines,
• cooperation with industrial partners and innovation incubators,
• support of sustainable wood management as a renewable resource.

Establishment of the TUZVO Technology Transfer Center

Supporting Innovation and Research Commercialization

Since October 1, 2025, a material and technology platform – the TUZVO Technology Transfer Center – has been operating within the VDL.

Its mission is to streamline and professionalize the process of protecting the intellectual property of the university and its employees, while also supporting the commercialization of research and development results.

The platform connects the technical capacities of the VDL with expert support for patenting, licensing, and technology transfer into practice.

This enables the university to more effectively transform scientific knowledge into practical solutions, reaching Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 7 – 8, i.e., validation in operational environments and readiness for commercialization.

Integration with the Living Labs Network

Living Lab Wood & Design – An Open Space for Creativity and Innovation

Currently, the VDL are in the process of joining the Living Labs Network of the Banská Bystrica Self-Governing Region.

Following this step, the Living Lab Wood & Design will be established – an open and collaborative environment connecting students, professionals, and the broader woodworking community.

This concept introduces a new dimension of practical collaboration, developed in partnership with the Association of Wood Processing Industries of the Slovak Republic and the Centre of Excellence for Vocational Education and Training in Woodworking.

An integral part of this phase will be the launch of a new shared creative and production space – the WoodMakers Hub, designed for students, designers, innovators, and the general public interested in woodworking and design.