In our Smart Production Lab, we pursue the horizontal networking idea in the sense of Industry 4.0. This involves the exchange of information along the value chain - from the supplier's supplier to the customer's customer. The applied research activities focus on the one hand on methods and tools as well as technologies (Robotic Process Automation, Process Mining, ...) to ensure lean processes aligned with the corporate strategy as a prerequisite for digitalization offensives(process management). On the other hand, the focus is on the sustainable optimization of internal and external material flows primarily through the use of digital solutions(intra- and transport logistics). Finally, the focus is on identifying future potential in the individual phases of the supplier management cycle through the use of Big Data, including in real time(Digital Procurement).
Research interests:
- How can companies design their internal and external logistics processes in the best possible way?
- How can companies implement sustainable transportation?
- How can processes be continuously improved and made fit for digital innovation?
- How can purchasing contribute to transparent, sustainable and stable supply chains?
Use Cases:
- Smart intralogistics - Flexible and scalable: Flexible in-plant transport automation through the use of automated guided vehicles (AGVs, AMR)
- Automated C-parts management & C-parts management process cost calculator: intelligent digital C-parts management solutions including process cost calculator to make savings potential transparent
- Digital purchasing via web-based SRM tool for real-time information about suppliers
- Supplier risk management by networking strategically important suppliers via cloud-based software solutions
- Digitalized Goods Receipt Capture with GS1 Standard & Scanning Glove PROGLOVE
