DHL is challenging students, start-ups and inventors to develop a mobile orderpick robot capable of moving independently, picking items and putting them in a cart. In addition, DHL is looking for a logistics solution that fits the emerging sharing economy.
Robot
DHL is making the call as part of the second edition of the 'Innovation Challenges'. In doing so, it distinguishes between the Robotics Challenge and the Sharing Economy Challenge. In the former, inventors must develop a mobile order-picking robot that can move at walking speed. Among other things, the robot must be able to automatically move back to the packing area when the cart is full.
Sharing Economy
In the Sharing Economy Challenge, DHL challenges people to develop a concept centred on sharing. This may be a solution or a product. The condition is that the idea creates value for both the companies involved and society.
DHL Innovation Day
Enthusiasts can submit their ideas until September. The entry must provide a clear description of the idea. Entries will be assessed by DHL logistics experts. They will consider functionality, design, effectiveness and commercial applicability. Three entries per challenge will go through to the finals. On 16 November, two winners will be chosen during the DHL Innovation Day. The winning concepts will receive prize money and get to showcase their solutions at the DHL Innovation Centers in Germany.
Second edition
It is the second time DHL has organised the Innovation Challanges. In the previous edition, it asked participants to develop a robot for the last mile. It also sought to come up with innovative logistics business models that focused on fair trade or the circular economy.
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