PhD in Robotics & Artificial Intelligence in collaboration with a Full-time

Aufgaben The “Engineering Logistics Technology, Planning & Processes” and “Future Automotive Manufacturing” departments want to jointly develop new automation technologies for the factory of the future in the field of intralogistics. The main focus here is on topics relating to innovation and digitalization in intralogistics, which are to be combined with robotics and artificial intelligence (AI). In addition, the ARENA2036 e.V. research campus at the University of Stuttgart will be used as a creative research platform for the further development of the technologies. The aim is to actively shape the production of tomorrow and make it fit for the future
Kitting (assembly pre-picking) is a picking process in production in which components are put together from the parts warehouse to match assembly steps. Bin picking refers to the automated process in which robots autonomously remove components from a load carrier, some of which are disordered, and place them in an orderly manner at another location. This process requires a high level of accuracy in order to avoid sorting errors and enable subsequent activities.
By using AI, simple robot assistants should learn how to find, pick and place as many different objects as possible in containers. The aim of this doctorate is to design and use algorithms and processes to enable the efficiency and accuracy of the bin-picking process through the use of AI in a simple way and for a wide range of components. It is important that new components can be taught without expert knowledge and very quickly. The verification and validation of the developed system through laboratory and operational tests rounds off these activities and is intended to determine its suitability for practical use

You will face the following challenges, among others:

• Development of prototypes with new technologies in the field of robotics, such as camera technology and artificial intelligence
• Development of humanoid functions for small robots/cobots
• Further development of recognition and gripping algorithms
• Development of automation-compatible packaging and sets
• Development and training of deep learning algorithms
• Concept development for automated gripping (pick & place) of different objects

The prerequisite for employment is the supervision of the doctoral project by a university lecturer. The doctoral candidate is responsible for selecting an appropriate supervisor
Qualifikationen

• Degree in artificial intelligence, robotics, mechanical engineering, mechatronics, automation technology or a comparable course of study
• Advanced programming skills (e.g. Python, C++) and sound knowledge of deep learning models
• Previous knowledge of robotics and computer vision is an advantage
• Creativity, motivation and ability to work in a team
• Confident written and spoken German and English skills

Additional information:
Would you like to do your doctorate in cooperation with Mercedes-Benz Group AG? We offer you an international network of experts, research materials, insights into your work and personal mentors who will support you as a contact person in addition to your faculty
Do your doctorate at a renowned university with the support of Mercedes-Benz Group AG as a non-academic partner – and benefit from the know-how of a globally active company.
Please apply online only and mark your application documents as “relevant for this application” in the online form. Information on the recruitment criteria can be found “here”
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If you have any questions about the application process, please contact HR Services by e-mail at myhrservice@mercedes-benz.com or by phone: 0711/17-99000 (Monday to Friday between 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.)