Fraunhofer IML presents optimised card set solution
The Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics IML has developed software called CASTN that analyses and optimises the volume utilisation of shipping cartons.
The stated aim is to reduce empty space, thereby lowering material consumption, transport effort, emissions, and costs.
According to a press release, many companies currently use their shipping boxes inefficiently. CASTN is intended to create transparency regarding actual utilisation and support the development of an optimised standard box set that matches the product and order structure.
Regulatory Requirements and sustainability
According to the Fraunhofer Institute, the software is intended to help companies prepare for the upcoming EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which provides for a minimum volume utilisation of 50 %.
Higher utilisation reduces packaging material and transport volume, while simultaneously contributing to lower CO₂ emissions. This is how efficiency, sustainability and regulatory requirements are to be linked.
Data-driven approach and practical application
According to the institute, CASTN is based on a data-driven approach. An integrated data check is intended to evaluate the quality of item, order, and carton data and identify weaknesses, as optimisation heavily depends on the database.
The software was developed in collaboration with partners from industry and trade and is now available and ready for market. Companies can use it independently or via third-party providers.
Premiere and market launch
According to reports, CASTN will be presented for the first time at the E-Commerce Berlin Expo. The IGEPA Group plans to offer the solution as a service to its customers.
With CASTN, Fraunhofer IML demonstrates that more efficient packaging solutions can combine economic advantages with sustainability and regulatory compliance.
From Christian Fischer – Press Release FRAUNHOFER INSTITUTE FOR MATERIAL FLOW AND LOGISTICS IML – https://www.iml.fraunhofer.de/de/presse_medien/pressemitteilungen/castn-optimiert-versandkartons.html