From production to the warehouse and on to retail - as quickly and efficiently as possible. In the wake of online business and a growing range of products, logistics processes are becoming increasingly more complex. Robots can optimize the necessary processes. Making their work more flexible and independent, but also making them safer when dealing with humans, are key factors for the enhancement of existing systems.

Scientists of the “3Dsensation” research network, coordinated by the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering IOF in Jena, are researching safer and more efficient human-machine interaction. At CES 2021, two projects with breakthrough innovations from the research alliance will be presented to visitors.

“FOLLOWme ILS” enables flexible and driverless transport of goods

Transport robots have been used in large production and logistics companies for many years. They allow the autonomous transport of goods entirely without a driver. The problem: Since the robots only travel on predefined routes, these systems are not very flexible.

"FOLLOWme ILS" wants to offer a solution: Using a 3D camera, the robot captures its surroundings, including humans. In this way, it can recognize employees. At the same time, sensory detection of the environment increases the robot's flexible adaptability to changes in the environment and situation. Risks of accidents are thus reduced.

Designed for use in production and logistics environments, both intelligent driverless vehicles and 3D-based control and monitoring systems were developed as part of “FOLLOWme ILS”. The entire system combines interdisciplinary innovation and research within the “3Dsensation” alliance with application-oriented results.

“ROTATOR” detects gaps in shelves - and thus secures sales in retail

As a customer, it is inconvenient to stand in front of empty shelves. And gaps in the product range that are not detected in time are also a nuisance for retailers. They can lead to a noticeable loss of sales. “ROTATOR” aims to prevent this: In a mobile and autonomous manner, the robot uses 3D sensors to detect inventory and to report gaps. In addition, the system recognizes humans in its environment and thus enables safe navigation - even in a supermarket with a lot of customers.

During the development of “ROTATOR”, new and applicable key technologies were brought forward that enable the economical use of autonomous mobile robots in intralogistics (i.e., logistics within a company's premises) - including, for example, 3D mapping as well as 3D obstacle avoidance. The system is now being used in selected supermarkets in France and Portugal. By integrating “ROTATOR” into active retail, the “3Dsensation” research alliance considers the system as a pioneering project that can also increase the acceptance of robotics in public spaces.

The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) is one of the world's largest trade fairs for electronics. This year's show, hosted by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), will be held in an entirely digital format from January 11 to 14. The virtual booth of the “3Dsensation” research alliance will be open to visitors specifically from January 12 to 13. The digital presentations can be viewed online until February 15.