The Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics IML and Dachser are extending their collaboration in the DACHSER Enterprise Lab for a further three years.

Their partnership will continue to focus on research and development projects with practical application benefits for the Dachser network.

These include digital technologies such as data science and artificial intelligence (AI), real-time locating systems (RTLS), 5G and the Internet of Things (IoT), autonomous vehicles, and adaptive warehouse systems.

Explained Stefan Hohm, Corporate Director Corporate Solutions, Research & Development at Dachser: “The first step in our joint research work in the DACHSER Enterprise Lab is to gain a detailed understanding of new technologies and their potential for logistics.

Then we build on that to develop prototypes and concepts that add tangible value for Dachser and our customers, turning them into innovations.”.

Hohm, who will head the new IT & Development executive unit as of January 2021, added: “So far, the work we’ve done together has proven that we can transform research results from the DACHSER Enterprise Lab into new processes and services throughout the entire logistics network.”

Prof. Michael ten Hompel, Managing Director of Fraunhofer IML, said: “We’re delighted that Dachser is continuing its collaboration with Fraunhofer IML. Our research results up to now and our new research contracts show just how important applied research is for logistics and supply chain management.

“We’re particularly proud that the lab teams have continued to work effectively despite the restrictions imposed by the coronavirus pandemic. Of course, technical aids such as video conferences and collaboration tools have been a great help. But above all, it’s the extraordinary commitment and motivation of everyone working at the DACHSER Enterprise Lab that is key to successful research in challenging times.”