Since the first automated systems for material handling were designed and built, control of these systems has been organized in a multi-level architecture. Each of these levels is controlled by a central PLC or material-handling controllers or ERP-System, depending on the layer.

With more capable systems and subsystems however, it is questionable, whether such a multi-tiered architecture with central controllers on each level are suitable for today's business environment.

By using examples of the Institute of material handling and logistics at Karlsrhue Institute of Technology, we will discuss necessary properties, architectures and technologies for flexible, adaptable and user-friendly material handling systems.

Professor Dr.-Ing. Kai Furmans
Institute of Material Handling and Logistics - KIT
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
Germany