Simplifying logistics with AI

Under the motto "Recapturing simplicity with AI-based logistics", the congress was opened on Tuesday, September 9, by the directors of the Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics IML. After the introduction, Prof. Alice Kirchheim, Director of the Fraunhofer IML, provided insights into research approaches that can be used to simplify logistics in many areas with the help of AI. "The time has come for us all to work together to leverage the potential of generative AI," appealed Kirchheim.

Franz Mathi (Knapp AG), Dr. Kerstin Höfle (Körber Supply Chain) and Jakub Piotrowski (Duvenbeck Group) then gave keynote speeches in which they presented their perspectives on AI. Among other things, they discussed dynamic and adaptable systems and the question of how companies can make the most efficient use of AI's potential. The speakers then took part in a panel discussion on the question: "Will nothing work without AI?"

Logistics for the space economy

In the thematic block "Through the galaxy with AI - how much logistics does the space economy need?", Victor Maier (The Exploration Company), Dr. Kristina Wagner (OHB) and Prof. Johann-Dietrich Wörner (acatech) discussed the transfer of logistics solutions into space under the moderation of Prof. Michael Henke, Director of the Fraunhofer IML.

Artificial intelligence in transport logistics

The last thematic block of the day was "Just do it - making transport logistics fit for the future with AI". Researchers presented use cases from the "Omnistics" platform, which offers companies (especially SMEs) simple, low-threshold AI modules. In a panel discussion, Prof. Uwe Clausen, Institute Director at Fraunhofer IML, also spoke with Roland Rüdinger (Rüdinger Spedition GmbH), Thomas Pentza (Geis Group), Martin Friedrich (Fraunhofer IML) and Anja Seemann (trade journalist, moderator) about AI in transport logistics.

Young companies in the spotlight: Digital Logistics Award

Finally, seven start-ups pitched for the "Digital Logistics Award", one of the most highly endowed prizes in the logistics start-up scene. The award has been an integral part of the Future Logistics Congress since 2017 and honors creative and innovative digital logistics solutions.

On the second day of the congress, September 10, participants will address the core topics of the congress in four parallel sequences. The focus will be on artificial intelligence, resilience and sustainability as well as collaborative research. Visitors can once again expect a varied program with impulses, workshops and space for exchange.