What’s new
Operators and cobots signal position and intent to each other in both directions
Physical product2019/20
Theme · 11 projects
Industry & operations
Machines, maintenance, field service and supply chains: tools for technicians and operators.
Highlights
All 95 projectsWhere this theme shines.
What’s new
A clip-on camera and sensor kit lets planners diagnose machine errors remotely
50 %Projected Less time spent troubleshooting machines
Platform2019/20
What’s new
A portable frame with self-centring tyre targets calibrates windshield cameras at customers
2×faster calibration, tested with technicians
Physical product2020/21
All projects in this theme · 8
More projects in this theme.
BlueCore AIA voice-first AI assistant that lets seafarers retrieve information and document work hands-free.Deep Blue FoundationSan Francisco US · Paris FR
Problem
Merchant seafarers communicate, document and monitor at the same time. Screen-based systems interrupt their workflow and add cognitive load while their hands are already busy.
What they built
BlueCore AI lets operators speak naturally to access information, check schedules and complete operational records. It turns spoken input into structured documentation without replacing professional judgement.
Impact
Crews stay focused and report faster. For maritime stakeholders, the concept shows how human-centred AI can improve efficiency while supporting well-being, privacy and trust.
Crystal BoxA forecasting add-on that explains AI predictions and lets forecasters add context, for the Supply Chain Chair.Chair Supply Chain of the FutureParis FR
Problem
AI-driven sales forecasting delivers accuracy but no explanation. Forecasters cannot justify predictions to stakeholders, so even correct predictions go unused.
What they built
Crystal Box shows why the AI's predictions change and lets forecasters add contextual factors such as exchange rates, weather or strikes that lie outside the model's training data.
Impact
Forecasters present AI insights with confidence. Sponsors tackle low AI adoption and recover the value of their forecasting investments.
Volvo AI AssistantJack, an AI assistant that guides operators through basic troubleshooting on remote construction sites, for Volvo CE.Volvo Construction EquipmentKarlskrona SE · São Paulo BR
Problem
When a machine fails on a remote construction site, a mechanic can take hours or days to arrive. One breakdown can halt the whole operation.
What they built
More than half of machine issues are simple. Jack combines AI and computer vision with Volvo's official documentation to guide operators through diagnosis, so mechanics are called only when needed.
Impact
Less downtime and lower costs for users. Volvo CE collects real-world data on recurring failures to refine maintenance and machine design.
The Volvo HSA system that adds operators' daily check-up observations to machine data for predictive maintenance, for Volvo CE.Volvo Construction EquipmentKarlskrona SE · São Paulo BR
Problem
Downtime is the common enemy on construction sites. Machine data lacks context, and stakeholders struggle to access critical information about equipment health.
What they built
The Volvo Human Sensor combines information from the operator's daily check-up with sensor data from Volvo's ActiveCare, supported by AI analysis and AR-guided inspections.
Impact
Richer context for diagnosis and fewer unplanned stops on site.
DriveAutoA remote-service dashboard that connects technicians and customers with live assistance and automatic documentation.SEW EurodriveKarlsruhe DE · Dublin IE
Problem
SEW needs to integrate a remote service option into its maintenance offering. Customers expect convenient support, and the choice affects profitability and competitiveness.
What they built
DriveAuto bundles Live Assistance, Serial Lookup, Automatic Documentation, Call Invitation and a Knowledge Base so technicians spend less time on manual tasks and more on customers.
Impact
Customers get prompt help without on-site visits; response times and downtime fall. Technicians work more efficiently.
VigiaA mobile app that manages stock, scheduling and customers for automotive glass repair centres.Saint-GobainSão Paulo BR
Problem
Replacing a vehicle's glass is complex. How can the efficiency and quality of service in repair centres improve?
What they built
Vigia handles inventory checks, stock movements, scheduling and customer registration, with a dashboard that summarises operational information.
Impact
Faster, more accurate stock control and smoother scheduling let repair centres serve more customers. Saint-Gobain could expand its database.
DIGITAL Mechadigital solutionsA roller-coaster maintenance service built on sensor bolts that monitor critical joints and pre-fill reports.PoggipoliniKyoto JP · Bologna IT
Problem
Find new applications and services for Poggipolini's SENS-IN bolt, a fastener with embedded sensors, including a business model for a new market.
What they built
SENS-IN bolts measuring vibration and self-loosening sit at critical points of a roller coaster. Software monitors them continuously and generates pre-filled maintenance reports on a tablet.
Impact
Cheaper, better-documented maintenance for parks and design data for manufacturers. Poggipolini moves from product to service provider.
Plan&SeeJana, an AI chatbot that routes prototype requests from Plansee's customers to the right expert.Plansee GroupSt. Gallen CH · Kyoto JP
Problem
How might Plansee create the best prototyping experience for key customers and employees by redesigning the onboarding of new projects?
What they built
During a new prototype request, the chatbot Jana acts as a personal online assistant, analyses the input and connects the customer with the relevant expert.
Impact
Transparency through shared data, simplicity through a natural interface, and efficiency gains as the process improves with use.