Manufacturing logistics and procurement – May 2024

Robot developments
In order to deploy mobile robots, self-driving cars, or drones into the real world, they need to be able to observe and understand the world around them, just like humans do. For his doctoral research (59.2 MB) at TU/e, Daan de Geus developed algorithms for automatic image recognition that are faster and more accurate than existing models.
ECE associate professor Joohyung Kim has created “Ringbot,” a monocycle robot with two legs. The hybrid leg-wheel mechanism enables the robot to tackle diverse terrains, from urban areas to indoor environments. The robot’s ability to manoeuvre through narrow spaces means this design can be adapted for last-mile deliveries in congested environments.

AI in packaging and processing operations
PMMI has published a report about transforming packaging and processing operations. The report focuses on four key themes affecting packaging and processing: data lake & analytics, AI, vertical startups and technology & maintenance. You can download the report after filling in your details.
In his thesis (1.46 MB) at BASIS Tucson North, Jimmy Kwon proposes a new approach to the issue of cardboard box packaging waste by selecting an optimal cardboard box with real-time processing of depth images through stereo RGB-D vision technologies and classification of products with deep learning.

Adoption and recognition of digital twin technology
IDC research highlights the widespread adoption and recognition of digital twin technology across various sectors, extending its reach far beyond the traditional, asset-heavy industries. The survey shows a familiarity with digital twins in resources and construction (52%) and manufacturing (40%), but also in professional services (40%), and transportation and logistics (37%). This broad applicability underscores the technology's role in enhancing operational efficiency and decision-making in cross-industry ecosystems.

Supply chain investments
Research (5.76 MB) from Cleo indicates that technology investments are increasing organisations’ ability to deliver on their supply chain commitments, resulting in accelerating profitability, revenue growth, competitive differentiation, and supply chain efficiency. What’s more, the ROI of these investments is seen quickly. Roughly 80% indicated they increased revenue in the same year they made supply chain technology investments.
ASCM and KPMG LLP have released findings from the Supply Chain Stability Index, which is designed to help supply chain professionals understand the stability of U.S. operations, and serve as a barometer for the greater global supply chain community. The Index found that 2023 was a year of tremendous improvement and increased supply chain stability overall, with several variables still driving continued fragility. Leveraging digital technology and developing workforce skills will distinguish leading companies from their counterparts. The areas of inventory optimisation, automation and the future of labour and ongoing logistics challenges merit special attention. You can download the report after filling in your details.

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