Master Thesis – Solutions for warning forklift operators about risks

In Toyota Material Handling Europe we are over 13500 colleagues passionate about supporting companies of all sizes with todays and tomorrows material handling challenges. Because we know that our business and our industry are essential and sometimes even critical for you for daily life and society at large.

The Research & Innovation Office at Toyota Material Handling Europe runs an innovation programme to deepen our understanding of accidents and incidents involving forklifts carried out in close collaboration with the Research Institutes of Sweden (RISE).

About the Thesis
In a rapidly growing high-tech industry in fast transformation Toyota Material Handling Europe is stable global and influential. We are committed to continuous improvement and innovation and we aim to strengthen our capabilities as a learning organisation.

The number of forklifts in use is steadily increasing and so are the accidents involving them. This is a complex challenge with many variables and our customers are actively looking for solutions. As a designer and manufacturer we can make a difference by developing productive solutions that support accident avoidance and reduce the damage caused to people and goods when accidents occur.

You will be based at our Innovation Centre in Vallastaden Linköping just a five-minute walk from the university. The Centre offers a dedicated student area where you can collaborate with other Masters students exchange ideas with our engineers and play an active role in the daily dynamics of innovation. You will also have the opportunity to visit our factory and laboratories in Mjölby gaining close insight into our core operations.

Thesis Objectives
The thesis will focus on:

• Investigating the effectiveness of different warning technologies such as directional sound haptic feedback in contact surfaces or other solutions.
• 
  Designing a solution with the chosen technology adapted for a Reach Truck forklift.
• Building a prototype for evaluation.
• Exploring the potential of ultrasound as an option for haptic feedback.

Your Contribution
As a thesis student you will:

• Investigate and evaluate warning technologies for forklift operators.
• Develop a concept and design adapted to real use cases.
• Build and test a prototype in collaboration with Toyota Material Handling Europe and the Research Institutes of Sweden (RISE).

Your Profile

We are looking for:

• One or two Masters students with a background in product development user experience mechanics electronics or similar fields.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• An interest in safety human-machine interaction and applied research.

What We Offer

• A unique opportunity to conduct your thesis within a global leader in material handling solutions.
• Access to experts and resources in a dynamic R&D environment.
• Support and mentorship from professionals at both the company and RISE throughout the whole process.
• Compensation according to Toyota Material Handling Europes policy for thesis students.

Practical Information

• Start date: January 2026
• Duration: Typically 20 weeks aligned with your programme. (30hp)
• Location: Linköping / Mjölby Sweden (Innovation Centre with option for remote work)

Your Application

Send your application as soon as possible and no later than November 6th 2025. We review applications continuously so dont wait to apply. Were not looking for perfect. Were looking for curious courageous creative minds who want to MOVE the World with us.

Applications should include:

• CV
• A short personal letter
• Transcript of records

For more information about this thesis topic please contact Jonas Klang Program Manager Innovation at .

If you have questions about the recruitment process please contact Victoria Östryd Söderlind Recuitment Specialist

#EUROPE