TwInTraSys research project launched 07.10.2021

Internal transport systems are an essential part of intralogistics. Due to different alternative means of transport and routes as well as a multitude of interactions with upstream and downstream processes, such as storage, picking and production processes, the planning and control of these systems is characterised by a high degree of complexity and dynamics.

Research project on the implementation of digital twins

Against this background, the TwInTraSys project consortium has joined forces. The project partners met on 07.10.2021 for the official kick-off at the Technology Centre for Production and Logistics Systems (TZ PULS) in Dingolfing. The aim of the research project is the conception and prototypical implementation of “digital twin(s) for dynamic simulation for the planning and control of internal transport systems within the framework of the digital factory” (TwInTraSys). The digital twins to be researched should reflect the system behaviour of real transport systems in intralogistics and enable a predictive investigation of different system configurations and an automated evaluation of alternative actions. This can include, for example, the distribution of resources such as industrial trucks and employees to the individual areas of the logistics system. In addition to employee deployment planning, control parameters in a transport control system can also be adjusted or tactical issues, such as the acquisition of new means of transport, can be investigated. In doing so, the impact of the decision on the entire transport system must be taken into account and an alternative course of action that best meets the requirements must be identified.

The project team

On the university side, the project is being carried out by Landshut University of Applied Sciences, which is acting as project coordinator and leader, and OTH Regensburg. Four companies are participating as industrial partners: Flexus AG, which is contributing its experience in the development of transport control systems; HiPP GmbH & Co. Vertrieb KG and MANN+HUMMEL GmbH, which will test and validate the digital twin as a potential user company; and SimPlan AG, which is providing support in the development of the simulation functions.

The digital twin will be tested and validated by the end of the project in August 2024. A special milestone will be the implementation of the prototype in the learning and sample factory of the Technology Centre for Production and Logistics Systems (TZ PULS) in Dingolfing and at the cooperation partners.

The TwInTraSys project is funded by the Bavarian State Ministry for Economic Affairs, Regional Development and Energy.

TWINTRASYS – the research team