Automation is and will remain a key driver of innovation in virtually all industrial sectors. The central goals—increased efficiency, higher quality, improved safety, and scalability—are more relevant today than ever before. Originally established in clearly defined environments, automation is increasingly conquering complex applications and dynamic fields of use.
Mobile machines in agriculture, construction, mining, and depots are among the most active fields of application today. The use of automated and networked e-trucks in factory and distribution transport is also rapidly gaining importance. The range of applications is constantly expanding with every technological advance – whether in sensors, control technology, communication, drive systems, or functional safety.
In many cases, the mere automation of decoupled or isolated robots and mobile machines is not enough. Real added value can only be achieved through intelligent system integration and reliable control. At Fraunhofer IVI, we develop, test, and evaluate technologies to not only automate mobile machines, but also to operate them intelligently, safely, and efficiently.