Research
The potential of AI in logistics
The Center for Transportation & Logistics (CTL) at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has set up a laboratory to investigate the application of new technologies in the logistics industry. Mecalux participated in the establishment of the laboratory with start-up funding.
The Intelligent Logistics Systems Lab will explore the potential of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI). This will be the starting point of a scientific collaboration between MIT CTL and Mecalux. Mecalux will contribute the technical vision and support of its software and automation experts in the coming years.
Better predictions using AI
Various research priorities are planned: For example, new methods and instruments will be investigated that are capable of producing precise short-term forecasts with high spatial and temporal resolution. One of the aims is to use improved predictions to enable same-day delivery or delivery within a few hours.
The lab is headed by Dr. Matthias Winkenbach, Research Director of the MIT Center for Transportation & Logistics (MIT CTL). "We want to support the application of new technologies based on artificial intelligence and machine learning to tackle the most important challenges in business and society," explains Winkenbach.
"Operational excellence is achieved when autonomous technologies are seamlessly integrated into warehouse operations. AI and machine learning can play a key role in planning and managing these resources," explains Javier Carrillo, CEO of warehouse technology company Mecalux.
You might also be interested in
Flying warehouse robot impresses the jury
The Swiss deep-tech company Verity has been awarded the 2026 IERA Award for its autonomous indoor drone system. The flying robots monitor inventory levels autonomously, operate without GPS, and are already in use in approximately 200 warehouses...
read more...The Right Warehousing Solution for Every Logistics Need
Whether it’s an S/4HANA implementation, the urgently needed replacement of the traditional SAP WM, or the growing demands for digitalization and automation—many companies are faced with the question of which warehouse management system will best...
read more...Kion gets off to a strong start in 2026
Significant increase in incoming orders
The intralogistics company Kion Group records a significant increase in order intake in the first quarter of 2026 and increases profitability and cash flow despite geopolitical uncertainties.
read more...Siemens and Kion develop supply chains of...
Digital twins in the warehouse
Siemens and Kion Group have entered into a strategic partnership to digitalize intralogistics processes. The aim is to make supply chains more flexible, more productive and more resilient to disruptions. The companies are relying on AI, simulation...
read more...Agentic AI as a basis for success for start-ups
January 2026 started with a record for start-ups, with almost a third more start-ups being founded in Germany. With 3568 newly created companies, a new high was reached, as announced by the Start-up Association - also thanks to AI. Nico Gaviola, VP...
read more...Datalogic: Gryphon GD4600 Series
High performance 2D handheld scanner
The Gryphon GD4600 series from Datalogic offers professional 2D handheld scanners for retail, industry, logistics and healthcare.
read more...Yaskawa at the Automatica 2025
AI meets robotics
At this year's Automatica, everything at Yaskawa revolves around AI-based robotics solutions for the smart factory and beyond. As a trade fair highlight, the manufacturer is presenting its new Motoman Next product concept.
read more...AI-based scanning system ensures speed in the net warehouse
The start-up Invisium has developed a solution for the fully automated recording of reusable load carriers, which aims to eliminate the need for costly and time-consuming stocktaking. The application at the food retailer Netto Marken-Discount is its...
read more...Digitalization: Germany is slowing down
Despite billions invested in fibre optics and 5G, digitalization in Germany is lagging behind, as a DIHK survey shows. Slow approvals and high costs are slowing down network expansion - with consequences for companies that rely on the cloud and AI.
read more...