We link logistics with IT.
The Center of Excellence Logistics and IT combines the leading research institutions in Dortmund as a scientific location to form an ecosystem for innovation with international appeal: We are making logistics the key scientific discipline of the industrial future.
Our work is on the latest topics of our times.
Autonomous logistic systems
Establishment of the infrastructure and launch of the so-called PACE Lab.
Cognitive Ergonomics
Establishment and operation of a picking lab with special consideration of the aspects of safety, security and privacy.
Design of socio-technical systems
Establishment of an exoskeleton test center, development of an XR Lab for research into mixed reality applications.
Machine Learning
Preparation of different logistic use cases in combination with Machine Learning.
PACE Lab
Test environment with real-time data acquisition and analysis of autonomous logistics systems, e.g. drones or driverless transport systems.
Picking Lab
Testing of modern technologies for the design of workplaces in intralogistics.
Exoskeleton Test Center
Research into the potential and acceptance of intelligent support structures by humans.
XR Lab
Exploring the opportunities and challenges of mixed reality for virtual training.
Escape Room
Didactic center of a further education offer in blended learning format.
We do research for the benefit of people, the economy and society.
Heads
Excellent research and teaching by linking people with expertise.
Society
Applying and using research in new contexts.
Business
Innovation guide and companion for new technologies.
Licences
New ways to license software and data.
Spin-offs
Nucleus for technology and knowledge-intensive spin-offs.
Teaching
Fostering the next generation of scientists in logistics.
Cooperation and collaboration – our driving force.
Researchers BBQ
Discussions about research and results with a series of workshops.
Research infrastructure
Inter-organizational use of all service facilities.
PhD School
Summer School für Promovierende der Logistik.
Associations
Partnerships at strategic and operational level.
Series of publications
Whitepapers outline the future of logistics.
Conferences and congresses
Participation in national and international events.
News and events
TRANSFER.FESTIVAL 2025
Nach den erfolgreichen Ausgaben der letzten Jahre geht das TRANSFER.FESTIVAL in die nächste Runde! Seid dabei, wenn wir am 3. Juli am Fraunhofer-Institut für...
Neue Transferprojekte ausgewählt
Rund 40 Projektideen wurden beim diesjährigen „Call for Ideas“ eingereicht: 11 Teams bekamen nach einer Vorauswahl die Möglichkeit, ihre Idee in fünf Minuten...
Leistungszentrum auf der LogiMAT 2025
Die LogiMAT, als eine der führenden Fachmessen für Intralogistik, bot eine hervorragende Plattform, um die neuesten Entwicklungen im Bereich der Logistik und...
Rekord beim Call for Ideas: 39 Projektideen eingereicht!
In diesem Jahr dürfen wir einen beeindruckenden Rekord beim Call for Ideas vermelden: Rund 39 innovative Projektideen wurden eingereicht! Von diesen 39 Ideen...
Transfer to the economy
Inform, test, develop together
In the test centers and laboratories of the Center of Excellence companies can obtain first-hand information about new technologies and test them in a straightforward manner without having to maintain their own project teams or invest in their own infrastructures.
Exoskeleton LAB
Exploring technology and testing systems
In the Exoskeleton Lab, we conduct subject studies in a test course with typical logistical main and secondary activities (picking, loading and unloading, transport operations). Using subjective and objective methods, the suitability of the various exoskeletons for specific activities is investigated, among other things, and influencing factors for practical use and for integration into work organizational processes are derived. In addition, potential users can learn about the technology and test the existing systems.
pace Lab
Real-time data acquisition and live visualization
The agile development of autonomous systems on an industrial scale requires innovative ways. The real-time data acquisition lab PACE enables perfect digital replication of reality with sub-millimeter accuracy as well as live visualization of measurement data, allowing novel development of algorithms in an industrial context. In addition to agile development, the PACE Lab offers companies a reference system for testing sensor technology, localization systems, mobile robots and drones and human-technology interactions.
Picking Lab
Technology, transfer and training
In the Picking Lab, we investigate and evaluate various classical and modern picking methods, assistive technologies and warehouse management systems. In addition to the evaluation of human-technology interaction, work-organizational processes in order picking or the use of mechanical assistance systems, such as exoskeletons, can also be considered independently of the manufacturer. Research and industry benefit equally from the Picking Lab’s transfer platform.
XR Lab
XR-based assistance systems
Companies in (intra-)logistics face numerous challenges. High employee turnover in the low-wage sector as well as monotonous workflows reduce motivation. The international working environment leads to language barriers, especially during the learning phase. In addition, errors can lead to high costs. Mixed reality (XR) applications can help here: They increase the intrinsic motivation of employees, can overcome language barriers and make knowledge transfer in training more efficient.
Contact
c/o Fraunhofer-Institut für Materialfluss und Logistik IML
Joseph-von-Fraunhofer-Straße 2–4 | 44227 Dortmund
Dr. Ing. Benedikt Mättig
Maik Hausmann
Dr. Ing. Hendrik Haße