Christian Hert

Christian Hert is a Researcher at Esslingen University of Applied Sciences, serving as Head of 'Autonomous Indoor Flight Robotics' at the Virtual Automation Lab since June 2024 and as Research Associate since May 2021. His work focuses on implementing robotics solutions for industrial environments, particularly with autonomous flying systems.

Education:

• Master of Engineering in Automotive Systems Engineering from Heilbronn University (March 2021)
• Bachelor of Engineering in Mechatronics - Automotive Systems Engineering from Baden-Württemberg Cooperative State University in Stuttgart (September 2019)

Christian Hert's research centers on autonomous indoor flight robotics in industrial contexts, with specific expertise in path planning for autonomous flying robots and methods for indoor localization. His work bridges theoretical robotics with practical industrial applications, particularly focusing on safe human-drone interaction and simulation-based operation systems. His research addresses critical challenges in flexible production systems where increasing product customization demands innovative material transport solutions.

Hert's publications demonstrate a clear trajectory toward practical implementation of UAV technology in manufacturing environments. His recent work focuses on safety mechanisms for human-drone interaction using curve-shortening flow methods, while his earlier research established foundations for simulation-based operation of indoor flight robots using digital twin technology. These works collectively address the challenge of integrating UAVs into dynamic production environments with minimal infrastructure requirements.

Christian Hert has established himself as a key contributor to the Virtual Automation Lab, working closely with Prof. Dr.-Ing. Sascha Röck and collaborating with researchers from institutions including University of Stuttgart. His industry experience with Porsche Engineering Services GmbH during both his bachelor's and master's studies provides valuable practical context for his academic research.

Hert leads the 'Autonomous Indoor Flight Robotics' research group within the Virtual Automation Lab, developing solutions that leverage otherwise unused airspace in industrial settings. His work specifically targets the challenges of implementing safe UAV operations in close proximity to human workers in high-wage countries where customized production systems are increasingly necessary.