Fraunhofer Institute for High Frequency Physics and Radar Techniques FHRThe SHIELD research project (Interference-Resistant Harmonic ISM Radar for Real-Time Logistics and Distribution) is developing a scalable sensor network that enables reliable localization in highly dynamic warehouse environments where autonomous robots, human workers, and complex material flows operate simultaneously.
Classical localization systems quickly reach their limits here – they are often too slow, insufficiently precise, or sensitive to external interference. The SHIELD project therefore pursues a novel approach: a harmonic ISM radar in the 61 and 122 GHz bands enables highly precise, robust 3D positioning that can be integrated into industrial processes almost anywhere. And all this with a size per radar tag including housing of only 13.75 x 16 x 6 millimetres.
Precise localization in dynamic warehouse environments
Modern warehouses are characterized by flexible structures, changing rack layouts and variable material flows. Human workers, autonomous vehicles and robotic systems operate in confined spaces, which makes coordination significantly more difficult. Confusing rack areas and blind spots lead to longer picking times and rising storage costs.
SHIELD addresses these challenges with a robust localization system that records the real-time position of robots and logistics units precisely and reliably. The harmonic ISM radar provides high-resolution echo signals, which are processed within an industry-grade software and hardware architecture. Thanks to standardized interfaces such as REST, WebSocket and MQTT, the system can be easily integrated into existing cyber-physical systems and industrial processes.
Robust technology for Industry 4.0
Compared to laser- or camera-based SLAM methods, which are affected by changing lighting conditions and reflections, or RF-based methods at lower frequencies, which often lose accuracy, SHIELD offers reliable and interference-resistant positioning in the sub-centimeter range.
The system is specifically designed for industrial environments and takes into account complex factors such as multipath propagation or parallel transmitter sources. By combining high-frequency signal processing, industrial hardware and a scalable software framework, SHIELD helps to make material flows more efficient, reduce picking times and increase safety in human-robot interaction.
The project’s target groups are operators of automated warehouse systems, manufacturers of autonomous mobile robots, system integrators in the field of Industry 4.0, as well as research and development partners in radar and high-frequency technology.
Project partners and funding
SHIELD is funded by the European Union and the state of North Rhine-Westphalia under the EFRE/JTF Programme NRW 2021–2027 and is coordinated by Projektträger Jülich (Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH). The consortium leader is Heuel & Löher GmbH & Co. KG. Together with the Chair of Integrated Systems at Ruhr University Bochum, the Chair of Materials Handling and Warehousing at TU Dortmund University, the Fraunhofer IML, and two further industrial partners, SDFS Smarte Demonstratorfabrik Siegen GmbH and Würth Industrie Service GmbH & Co. KG, an industry solution is to be created for the further automation of logistics systems.
Project duration: 1 May 2025 – 30 April 2028
