At Toyota Material Handling Europe (TMHE), we create the technology that keeps the world moving. Diverse businesses across Europe depend on our logistics and material handling solutions. By pioneering technology such as automation, connectivity and productivity solutions, we create opportunities for our customers’ logistics operations to be as efficient as possible.

We firmly believe in setting ideas in motion. That is why we are investing more than ever in research and development. Our multidisciplinary teams work both conceptually and practically to develop the next generation of material handling products and solutions. By providing our Research and Development organisation with the creative freedom and resources needed to explore new technologies, we aim to stay at the forefront of innovation. At Toyota Material Handling Europe, we contribute to a smarter and more sustainable society, today and tomorrow.

Background and purpose
How can we ensure that engineers have access to the right information throughout product development?

Engineering data is often distributed across different systems, files and teams. When information is difficult to access or trace, understanding design changes, reusing existing knowledge and making informed technical decisions become more challenging.

A digital thread connects information across the product lifecycle, making it easier to understand how engineering data relates to different products, processes and decisions. A key principle is to establish a reliable single source of truth, where engineers can access consistent and authoritative information regardless of where the data is created or managed.

At TMHE, we want to explore how product lifecycle management (PLM) and computer-aided design (CAD) can support a more connected and traceable flow of engineering information.

The purpose of this thesis is to develop a digital thread concept based on our existing engineering processes and identify opportunities for improvement.

Thesis description
Working with a selected part of our R&D product development process, you will:

• Map how engineering information is created, shared and managed across relevant systems and teams.
• Identify gaps in information traceability, accessibility, ownership and reuse.
• Explore how PLM and CAD approaches could improve the connection between engineering data and development activities.
• Develop a future-state digital thread concept and recommend priorities for further development.

Your findings will provide a research-based concept and practical recommendations to guide future decisions.

The thesis does not involve implementing a new PLM or CAD platform.

We are looking for two Master’s students studying:

• Mechanical Engineering or Product Development
• Industrial Engineering and Management
• Information Systems or a related engineering field

You have an interest in digital engineering, product development and how information systems support technical processes.

You enjoy analysing complex problems, collaborating with different stakeholders and translating your findings into clear recommendations. You can communicate effectively in English.

Beneficial skills (not mandatory)

• Familiarity with CAD, PLM or product data management (PDM).
• Experience with process mapping, systems analysis or technical information management.
• An interest in engineering data, information traceability or digital transformation.
  Previous professional experience with PLM systems is not required.

At Toyota Material Handling Europe, you will work on a real engineering challenge and explore how machine learning could support future product development decisions.

You will be based at our Innovation Centre in Vallastaden, Linköping and the TMHE Headquarters in Mjölby, where you will receive guidance from experienced professionals and have opportunities to collaborate with engineers and other Master's students.

We believe in a flexible work environment that allows you to balance both your professional and personal life. At TMHE, you will have the opportunity to build valuable skills, contribute to impactful projects and be part of a collaborative, diverse and welcoming workplace. You will also receive competitive compensation in two instalments: one when you start your work and the other upon successful completion of your thesis.

Time for you to make a MOVE!

Please submit your application, including:

• A brief personal letter
• Your CV
• A recent transcript of records

For questions about the thesis, please contact your future mentor Simon Ekström at simon.ekstrom@toyota-industries.eu.

Applications are reviewed continuously, and suitable candidates may be invited to interviews before the deadline.

Terms

• Application: As soon as possible, or at the latest by the 30th of October 2026.
• Start date: During January 2027.
• Scope: 30 hp.
• Number of students: Two.
• Location: TMHE Innovation Centre, Vallastaden, Linköping (Main). You must be able to attend in-person meetings at our offices in Mjölby when required.