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Open topics for theses (as of 01.03.2025)

1) Analysis of the current state of research on the use of humanoids and social robots from a behavioral perspective with a focus on the healthcare
goal is a comprehensive research on the current research and development level as well as comparative preparation of relevant literature and studies.

Target group: Bachelor and Master (Madi, Dima, Map)

2) Conducting an acceptance study on social robots for communication and information tasks in inpatient healthcare.
A Furhat robot connected to a generative language model will be operated in the waiting area of ​​Braunfels Hospital. The reactions and acceptance of the participants will be analyzed within the framework of a methodologically sound behavioral study.

Target group: Master (Madi, Maim, Map, dima)

3) Development of an internationally oriented business model for drone- and AI-supported logistics, inspection, and monitoring services in conjunction with Mobile Private Networks in the primary sector and for raw material extraction (already in progress).
Raw material extraction companies often operate in remote regions and therefore have limited IT infrastructure. At the same time, the extraction areas often extend over large and sometimes inaccessible areas. This results in particular challenges, for example, in the inspection of machinery and equipment, their safety monitoring, and in various logistics tasks (e.g., inventory).
The use of AI-supported drones allows parts of these processes to be automated. This generally requires so-called Mobile Private Networks (MPNs) or campus networks based on 5G. The thesis aims to evaluate and design possibilities for developing a corresponding business model. The Business Model Canvas serves as the methodological basis.

Target group: Master (Madi)

4) Development of a business model for the use of the social robot Furhat in conjunction with generative AI models (in progress)
Robotics is considered a promising field of application for AI systems. Currently, many manufacturers are primarily focused Major physical, labor-intensive tasks (e.g., warehouse management or assembly work). The use of robots for communicative service tasks, on the other hand, is still receiving little attention.
This thesis aims to develop a concept for building a corresponding business model using the Business Model Canvas.

Target group: Bachelor and Master (Madi, Dima)

5) Development of a chatbot for communication with an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system as a backend for an online shop (in progress)
The rapid development of generative AI systems will fundamentally change the internet and its use in the near future. In contrast to currently leading systems (Frontier AI), the focus here is on integrating local data sources – while taking data protection into account.
A relevant technological approach is so-called "Retrieval Augmented Generation." This allows local documents to be integrated into on-premises, open-source language models. Initial frameworks already enable the implementation of such systems without in-depth programming knowledge. THM Business School has relevant experience in this area.
Building on previous projects, a thesis will investigate to what extent such a framework can be used to integrate databases from commercial applications. The database of an online shop for dietary supplements can be used as a concrete practical example.

Specific requirements: SQL knowledge (such as that taught in the Business Intelligence module) is required for this topic!

Target group: Master (Madi, Mauf, Dima)

Scharf, P., Keller, S.: PPS implementation in medium-sized production companies. In: VDI-Z 03, Düsseldorf: Springer-VDI-Verlag, 1999

Keller, S.: Development of a method for the integrated modeling of structures and processes in production companies. VDI-Verlag, Düsseldorf (Dissertation). 2000

Keller, S.: eNORM - Standards management for manufacturing companies and industry associations. In: Journal for DIN 40. Beuth-Verlag. Berlin. 2001

Keller, S.: Capacity planning – planning small-batch production efficiently and promptly. In: Maschinenmarkt 24. Vogel-Verlag. Würzburg. 2001

Keller, S.: Holistic e-business strategies for Medium-Sized Companies . In: VDI-Z 08. Springer-VDI-Verlag. Düsseldorf. 2001

Keller, S.: E-Procurement – ​​Current State of Use in Manufacturing Companies. In: Proceedings of the 2nd Siegen Forum for Logistics Electronic Procurement – ​​Application Potentials, Perspectives and Limitations. Siegen. 2002. Keller, S.:

The Plagues of the Digital Age. In: Study and Practice. Giessen. 2003

Keller, S.: Planning and controlling in single-unit and small-batch production. In: Industrieanzeiger 09. Konradin-Verlag, Leinfelden-Echterdingen. 2005

Keller, S., Trayser, B.: Online banking in user testing. bank und markt 03. Knapp & Richardi Publishers, Frankfurt. 2005

Keller, S.: Physician networks and integrated care: Between aspiration and reality. In: Deutsches Ärzteblatt 109, Berlin/Cologne 2012

Keller, S.: Concerted pharmacotherapy in physician networks. In: Health Economics & Quality Management, Issue 3. Thieme-Verlag, Stuttgart, May 2012

Keller, S.: Modern IT developments and their influence on the economy and society; pp. 23–52; in: Digitalization: Data hype with loss of value?: Ethical perspectives for a key technology; Haupt, R. and Schmitz, St. (eds.); SCM-Hänssler 2019

Keller, S., Lorenz, A.: Study on the state of knowledge and use of artificial intelligence in the Central Hessian economy and the adjacent Siegerland region - Analysis of the AI ​​maturity of companies within the framework of a qualitative study; THM University Publications