Skip to content
Search AI Powered

Latest Stories

Lucas Systems, CMU to tackle sustainable logistics

Tech provider’s data scientists to work with Carnegie Mellon University graduate students on ways to reduce waste by optimizing multi-item packaging in DCs.

cmu-box-image-1536x864.jpg

Warehouse technology systems provider Lucas Systems is partnering with Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) to further develop technology solutions that can help reduce distribution center (DC) and transportation industry packaging waste, the company said this week.


The partnership brings together Lucas Systems' data scientists and graduate-level students in CMU’s Software and Societal Systems Department (S3D) in the School of Computer Science to develop projects that can help solve end-of-supply chain distribution challenges, according to a Lucas Systems press release. The research is focused on developing innovative ways to reduce DC and transportation industry waste by optimizing the way DC workers fill and package multiple items for a single order.

The program will also contribute to Lucas Systems’ ongoing development of smart software that helps warehouse workers pick and pack orders in the most environmentally friendly and financially efficient way, according to the company. Based in Wexford, Pa., Lucas Systems provides warehouse optimization software and voice technology solutions.

Representatives from both groups emphasized the growing opportunity to develop sustainable solutions for supply chain operations, especially distribution. Lucas executives pointed to industry statistics showing that worldwide consumption of paper and cardboard has grown steadily over the past 60 years, increasing about 7% year-over-year, according to research firm Statista. They also said about 90% of items shipped in the United States are packaged in cardboard.

“The entire distribution industry has numerous opportunities to reduce waste and improve sustainability,” Lucas Systems’ CEO Mark McCleary said in the press release. “Consumers already recognize the increased amount of material they throw away with each shipment they receive. Consumers are paying for a lot of that waste—and so is our environment.” “

"CMU and S3D are excited to work with Lucas Systems on this critical challenge,” said Travis Breaux, director of the Master of Software Engineering programs and associate professor of computer science at CMU. “Improving the sustainability of packaging using the latest technologies is an area that we’re excited to contribute to.”

The Latest

More Stories

person using AI at a laptop

Gartner: GenAI set to impact procurement processes

Progress in generative AI (GenAI) is poised to impact business procurement processes through advancements in three areas—agentic reasoning, multimodality, and AI agents—according to Gartner Inc.

Those functions will redefine how procurement operates and significantly impact the agendas of chief procurement officers (CPOs). And 72% of procurement leaders are already prioritizing the integration of GenAI into their strategies, thus highlighting the recognition of its potential to drive significant improvements in efficiency and effectiveness, Gartner found in a survey conducted in July, 2024, with 258 global respondents.

Keep ReadingShow less

Featured

Report: SMEs hopeful ahead of holiday peak

Report: SMEs hopeful ahead of holiday peak

Businesses are cautiously optimistic as peak holiday shipping season draws near, with many anticipating year-over-year sales increases as they continue to battle challenging supply chain conditions.

That’s according to the DHL 2024 Peak Season Shipping Survey, released today by express shipping service provider DHL Express U.S. The company surveyed small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to gauge their holiday business outlook compared to last year and found that a mix of optimism and “strategic caution” prevail ahead of this year’s peak.

Keep ReadingShow less
retail store tech AI zebra

Retailers plan tech investments to stop theft and loss

Eight in 10 retail associates are concerned about the lack of technology deployed to spot safety threats or criminal activity on the job, according to a report from Zebra Technologies Corp.

That challenge is one of the reasons that fewer shoppers overall are satisfied with their shopping experiences lately, Lincolnshire, Illinois-based Zebra said in its “17th Annual Global Shopper Study.”th Annual Global Shopper Study.” While 85% of shoppers last year were satisfied with both the in-store and online experiences, only 81% in 2024 are satisfied with the in-store experience and just 79% with online shopping.

Keep ReadingShow less
Mobile robots, drones move beyond the hype

Mobile robots, drones move beyond the hype

Supply chains are poised for accelerated adoption of mobile robots and drones as those technologies mature and companies focus on implementing artificial intelligence (AI) and automation across their logistics operations.

That’s according to data from Gartner’s Hype Cycle for Mobile Robots and Drones, released this week. The report shows that several mobile robotics technologies will mature over the next two to five years, and also identifies breakthrough and rising technologies set to have an impact further out.

Keep ReadingShow less
warehouse automation systems

Cimcorp's new CEO sees growth in grocery and tire segments

Logistics automation systems integrator Cimcorp today named company insider Veli-Matti Hakala as its new CEO, saying he will cultivate growth in both the company and its clientele, specifically in the grocery retail and tire plant logistics sectors.

An eight-year veteran of the Georgia company, Hakala will begin his new role on January 1, when the current CEO, Tero Peltomäki, will retire after a long and noteworthy career, continuing as a member of the board of directors, Cimcorp said.

Keep ReadingShow less