Sensor-Driven Digitalisation for Intralogistics

At LogiMAT 2026, SICK will showcase sensor-based, digital and safety technologies aimed at improving efficiency, transparency and operational safety across warehouse automation, material flow and distribution logistics.

LogiMAT 2026 as a platform for intralogistics innovation
LogiMAT 2026 will take place from 24 to 26 March in Stuttgart and is positioned as Europe’s largest trade fair for intralogistics solutions and process management. SICK will exhibit in Hall 1, Stand F51, with additional demonstrations for mobile platforms in Hall 8, Stand G11.

The company’s presence focuses on applications in production logistics, warehousing, internal material flow and distribution, where increasing levels of automation and digitalisation require reliable sensor data and interoperable software systems.

Warehouse automation under demanding conditions
In fully automated warehouses, sensors are critical for maintaining reliable material flow. Cold storage environments present specific challenges due to low temperatures, condensation and limited lighting. SICK will present an image-based code reading solution designed for continuous operation in cold storage down to –35 °C.

The system is intended to ensure consistent detection of 1D and 2D codes on pallets and products, supporting identification and tracking even under adverse environmental conditions. Such capabilities are relevant for automated high-bay warehouses where data availability directly affects throughput and system availability.

Digitalisation and analytics in intralogistics
SICK’s intralogistics portfolio includes sensor-based data acquisition combined with software for process transparency. Central to this approach is an analytics platform that aggregates and evaluates data from sensors and systems across the material flow.

By converting sensor data into operational indicators, the platform supports monitoring of automated and manual processes alike. This enables logistics operators to identify bottlenecks, reduce error-prone manual steps and manage intralogistics processes more systematically within a digital supply chain.

Track and trace for automated sorting systems
Automated sorting systems rely on accurate and timely object identification. SICK’s track and trace solutions capture data such as barcode content, volume and weight. AI-supported functions extend this capability to object classification, hazardous goods identification and the separation of overlapping items.

Complementing the hardware, an analysis and visualisation software monitors system performance using defined key performance indicators. Diagnostic functions support targeted fault analysis with the aim of maintaining high system availability. The software can also be scaled to manage multiple track and trace systems from a central interface.

Pallet handling and load measurement
Pallets and load carriers are fundamental elements in intralogistics. SICK will demonstrate solutions for automated pallet identification, inspection and localisation, as well as 3D load dimensioning and weight monitoring.

A focus area is the capture of volume data for challenging loads, including dark or black-wrapped pallets. Accurate volume and condition data supports applications such as billing, capacity planning and quality assurance, while contributing to smoother and more transparent material flow processes.

Mobile platforms and vehicle safety
Mobile robots and manually operated industrial trucks are gaining importance in modern intralogistics. SICK will present an ecosystem of sensors and controllers for object detection, localisation, driving assistance and collision avoidance.

A central safety controller integrates data from standard and safety sensors on mobile platforms, coordinating protective functions and enabling diagnostic access. This architecture is designed to support safe interaction between vehicles, goods and personnel while maintaining operational flexibility.

Personal and machine safety in logistics operations
Operational safety remains a critical factor in intralogistics, particularly where automation and human activity intersect. SICK will present safety sensors and system solutions designed to protect personnel while minimising downtime of machines and systems.

These solutions address risks associated with high work intensity, ergonomic strain and complex material flows. By combining safety functions with availability-oriented system design, the approach aims to support safe and productive logistics environments.

Application relevance across intralogistics
Across warehouse automation, track and trace, pallet handling and mobile platforms, SICK’s portfolio at LogiMAT 2026 highlights the role of detailed, high-quality sensor data as a foundation for digital, efficient and resilient intralogistics processes. The emphasis on analytics, AI-supported functions and safety integration reflects current requirements for scalable and future-ready logistics systems.

www.sick.com