Autonomous delivery robots are revolutionising rural areas

Challenge and vision

The new research project "Delivery Robot-3L", which runs until June 2027, aims to analyse the challenges and potential of autonomous delivery systems specifically for rural areas in Lusatia and to develop innovative solutions. While delivery robots are already being tested and used in urban areas, rural areas pose a particular challenge. The lower consumer density and the often heterogeneous transport infrastructure make it necessary to develop new approaches that are tailored to the specific requirements of rural regions. The "Lieferroboter-3L" project now aims to evaluate the economic efficiency, social acceptance and technical feasibility of delivery robots in rural areas.

Real-world laboratory in Lusatia: focus on field studies

As part of the project, the research team led by Prof. Dr.-Ing. Sylvio from BTU Cottbus-Senftenberg is conducting field studies in various rural environments to test the usability and effectiveness of autonomous delivery robots. "These studies provide important insights for the further development of robot technology and its integration into rural infrastructure. In particular, we are interested in the question of how these systems can contribute to public services, for example by delivering food, medicines or post," explains Prof. Dr.-Ing. Sylvio Simon, holder of the Chair of Tool Making Machines at BTU.

Project partners and funding

The BTU project is being developed in close cooperation with ProFunk electric Service GmbH from Cottbus, Lauer Transport Technology GmbH from Luckau and the Freiberg University of Mining and Technology. The project is being funded with over 2.6 million euros, 80% of which is being provided by the Federal Ministry of Digital and Transport (BMDV). Three departments from BTU Cottbus-Senftenberg are represented: the Tool Making Machines department (Prof. Dr.-Ing. Sylvio Simon), which is working on the design of the bearing unit structure, the Factory Planning and Operation department (Prof. Peggy Näser) and the Education Sciences department (Prof. Dr. Juliane Noack Napoles).

Future prospects

With the "Delivery Robot-3L" project, BTU Cottbus-Senftenberg is actively contributing to structural change in Lusatia and strengthening the region as a centre of innovation. The results of the project could have far-reaching applications beyond Lusatia and make an important contribution to the future of autonomous logistics systems. Municipalities and partners are being sought with whom the project can be jointly launched.