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12. August 2020The Kempten-based logistics software developer Soloplan GmbH was able to review the research results of a cross-docking solution for augmented reality. The research was conducted by students from Kempten University, studying computer science and business informatics. Soloplan has been collaborating with Kempten University since 2005.
(Kempten) In collaboration with Soloplan GmbH, students from Kempten University are presenting a cross-docking solution for augmented reality and showcasing the research results for a mixed-reality headset.
In the presence of University President Prof. Dr. Hauke, Prof. Dr. Wind (Business Informatics), and the managing directors of Soloplan GmbH, Fabian and Wolfgang Heidl, the current research results from the computer science and business informatics programs were presented on Thursday.
Task for Augmented Reality App
At the beginning of April, the task for the students of the Faculty of Computer Science and Business Informatics was “Development of a functional prototype of an augmented reality app for the area of cross-docking using the Microsoft HoloLens mixed-reality headset.” In addition to the presentation of results, participants also received exciting insights into the development process and were able to test the prototype afterwards.
Augmented reality combines virtual elements with the real environment. Most people are more familiar with this technology from online games such as “Pokemon Go” or from filters on platforms like “Instagram” and “WhatsApp.” With the help of the mixed-reality headset, interactive 3D projections are projected into the real environment, and the user is immersed in an imaginary environment, excluding the physical world. Cross-docking describes the processes of a transshipment warehouse in the logistics world and defines all activities between goods receipt, interim storage, and goods dispatch or loading area.
Digitalization in Logistics More Important Than Ever
Between April and July, research and development were diligently carried out. Initially, the students developed a prototype on paper, thus outlining the rough surface design of the planned product. Subsequently, test recordings were made in a warehouse, work steps were modeled, and programming began. The mixed-reality headset features a photo and video camera and is controlled both by voice and gestures such as head movements or combinations of thumb and index finger. “The challenge of this project is to make the best possible use of existing technologies to create added value for the transport and logistics industry,” explains Prof. Dr. Wind. Because digitalization is more important for freight forwarding and logistics companies than ever. By using software, artificial intelligence, and augmented reality, processes are optimized and simplified. The logistics software CarLo developed at Soloplan significantly contributes to the success of companies. In addition to saving time and costs, digitalization also eliminates transmission errors.
“As a world-leading provider of logistics software, continuous development is extremely important to us. We orient ourselves to the latest trends in the IT and logistics industry and place great value on exchange with our customers as well as new input from students, which is why I am even more pleased about the good collaboration with Kempten University,” reports Fabian Heidl, CEO International of Soloplan GmbH.
Photo: © Kempten University, Faculty of Computer Science / Image Caption: Soloplan GmbH extends the collaboration in the field of research with Kempten University, which has existed since 2005. In the presence of University President Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Hauke, Dean of the Faculty of Computer Science Prof. Dr. Rieck, and the scientific director of the Laboratory for Innovation and Digitalization in Logistics at the university Prof. Dr. Wind, as well as Fabian and Wolfgang Heidl, managing directors of Soloplan GmbH, the new contract for the continuation of the Soloplan Innovation Lab was signed.
