Driving innovation: CombiQ’s smart sensor detection enhances safety and efficiency at our factory
In today's fast-paced warehouse environments, safety is paramount. We put CombiQ’s Digital Collision Warnings alarm system, a groundbreaking IoT solution designed to monitor, quantify and respond to collisions on rackings in real-time, to the test in our factory in Sweden.
Safety innovation doesn't always require complex solutions
Our collaboration with startup CombiQ AB demonstrates how simple sensor technology is transforming warehouse safety at Toyota Material Handling Europe's facility in Mjölby, Sweden.
At the heart of the project is CombiQ’s collision detection system: a network of discreet sensors mounted on racking systems that measure vibrations and G-forces. This system sends real-time data to a cloud platform, triggering alerts that help assess damage and improve safety, all without adding complexity to the workflow.
Smarter monitoring, safer operations
Within weeks of installation, the system had already detected around ten collisions, including one severe 11G impact that could have resulted in a major safety hazard if it had gone unnoticed. CombiQ’s technology revealed 40% more safety risks compared to traditional reporting methods, enabling faster responses and proactive prevention.
"The sensors detect impacts and send out alarms on where the incident has occurred, info that we do not get from the forklift trucks themselves." - Fredrik Wigh, Program Manager Innovation at Toyota Material Handling Europe.
Innovation through collaboration
This initiative was made possible by our Strategic Innovation Office (SIO), which bridges internal challenges with external innovation. SIO identified CombiQ as a promising partner, bringing a tested but still emerging technology into a real-world logistics environment.
"We had previously done a small proof of concept for a mutual customer, and I thought this would be a great fit for Toyota Material Handling’s operations.” - Joakim Nordén, Sales Manager at CombiQ.
"Innovation isn’t just about new technology,
it’s about having the courage to try something new.”
Fredrik Wigh
Program Manager Innovation at Toyota Material Handling Europe
Trial and transformation
The pilot was launched in an external logistics facility known for heavy racking wear and frequent impacts. With help from production leaders and technicians, the team tested and adjusted the system’s sensitivity to minimise false alerts — initially set at 1.5G, later increased to 2.5G.
“This gives us data on where collisions happen most frequently,” says Jonas Björk, Manager of Production Engineering at Toyota Material Handling Europe. “That insight can help us redesign layouts or adjust flows to prevent future incidents.”
Beyond collision detection, the system could also be used to monitor environmental factors like temperature and humidity. “That’s really interesting for us,” adds Jens Ullberg, Production Technician at Toyota Material Handling Europe, “especially since we handle materials that are sensitive to environmental changes.”
The importance of courage and confidence
What makes this collaboration stand out is the willingness to test the untested. “Fredrik reached out and asked if we wanted to test this system,” says Mårten Alfredsson, Production Leader. “That was about six months ago, and we’ve been running the trial since late March.” While many procurement teams focus on proven solutions, SIO looks to smaller players for disruptive ideas. “I don’t have time in my role to go out and find these types of solutions,” Mårten continues. “That’s why it’s so valuable to have a team like SIO bringing them to us.”
Looking ahead
As our operations grow, so does the need for smarter, scalable safety systems. Thanks to an open-minded approach and the confidence to experiment, Toyota Material Handling recognises the value in collaborating with agile innovators like CombiQ AB.