Ericsson: How Drones and 5G are Reshaping Logistics

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) – better known as drones – have proven increasingly valuable in warehousing and logistics operations since their debut. 

As companies seek cost-effective solutions, many have turned to digitalisation and Industry 4.0 technologies, with drones emerging as key tools for improving operational efficiency and process quality. 

Matt Addicks, Head of Product Marketing for Private Networks at Ericsson, explains: “UAVs offer numerous benefits for automating simple tasks, such as scanning shelves for inventory and monitoring staff safety, which are traditionally carried out by human workers. 

“By using drones and robots, logistics businesses can save time and personnel resources, allowing employees to concentrate on more complex, value-adding work.”

Operational challenges persist

On the other hand, such systems must simultaneously navigate numerous operational challenges.

For optimal performance, UAVs require high-speed, mobile, reliable and secure connectivity to communicate with ground teams in real time. They must also be lightweight, limiting battery size and resulting in relatively short flight times of around 20-30 minutes. 

While the obvious answer is to invest in multiple charging stations and larger drone fleets, this is difficult to justify in an unstable economic climate. 

However, the advent of emerging technologies like private 5G is revolutionising warehouse efficiency and protecting global supply chains. 

Matt says firms like Cypher Robotics and Unmanned Life are leading the charge in this space, developing autonomous robotics solutions that are transforming operations in industries like retail, manufacturing and maritime. 

Revolutionising inventory cycle counting 

Manual inventory management continues to be a burden on the logistics sector.

Traditional counting methods rely on temporary staff performing repetitive tasks that not only consume substantial time but also pose safety hazards, particularly when using forklifts to access high shelves.

Beyond the physical risks, human mistakes frequently lead to counting errors, while the need to close off warehouse sections during these counts further disrupts operations and reduces productivity.

Matt references Cypher Robotics’ solution – a single, integrated package that combines the best of aerial and ground robotics technology. This automates the cycle counting process, with the system capturing data with 99.9% accuracy. 

Networks such as Ericsson Private 5G enable such devices to seamlessly move around expansive warehouse facilities for extended duration missions, while automatically and securely loading data in real time to the warehouse management system. 

Low latency allows for immediate validation if certain barcodes or items don’t look right on inspection, meaning corrective measures can be made in real time to maintain accuracy. 

Matt continues: “Automating this process means significantly more inventory can be counted day or night and warehouse operations also become much more efficient, as aisles don’t need to be shut down for the pick and pack teams to carry out their work.

“Workers who previously had to carry out cycle counting are freed up to focus on more satisfying tasks, thus helping to improve overall employee satisfaction, morale and retention.

“The solution has already been trialled with great success by a major Canadian retailer with more than 300 sites across the country.”

Enhancing staff safety with autonomous drones

Ports serve as vital domestic and international transit hubs, featuring intricate operations that demand continuous surveillance and security measures. 

While autonomous drones can enhance inspection protocols, they rely on seamless network connectivity and constant contact with centralised control systems to function effectively.

This, Matt claims, is where private 5G comes into its own, providing fast, secure and reliable connectivity right across ports, enabling drones to operate efficiently and safely without delays or disruptions in communication. 

He adds: “In a port environment, where drones may be navigating around ships, cargo and other infrastructure, it’s essential to maintain a reliable and continuous connection to ensure the safety of operations.

“A private 5G network can enable the mobility and reliability required for seamless communication with autonomous drones or any other mobile device.”

With autonomous drones generating a significant amount of data, including sensor readings, video feeds and operational logs, uninterrupted connectivity allows for real-time data transfer and analysis – enabling the efficient monitoring and management of drone operations. 

Port operators can also remotely monitor and control autonomous drones, enabling them to respond quickly to changing conditions or emergencies and ensuring tasks are completed efficiently and effectively.

Port of Tyne leads the way 

Leading the charge in this space is the UK’s Port of Tyne, which has trialled a private 5G autonomous drone in collaboration with Unmanned Life, BT and Ericsson. 

Using spectrum provided by BT and Ericsson Private 5G connectivity, this drone could be airborne in less than a minute. It automates patrols and inspections, rapidly responding to incidents anywhere around the port, and is easily scalable to a fleet of autonomous drones operated by Unmanned Life’s platform. 

Equipped with software trained to detect anomalies within seconds – such as dangerous gas leaks or unauthorised personnel – the drones enhance worker safety through real-time monitoring and timely intervention.

Using drones also has the potential to increase operational efficiency at the port, enabling fast and informed decisions to be made from a single command centre. 

“The reliable low latency of the private 5G connection allows real-time video streaming to a secure channel, which is crucial given the sensitive nature of the information being shared,” details Matt.

“Additionally, using private 5G connectivity, the autonomous drone system can be set up in a matter of hours, eliminating the need for expensive fixed infrastructure in a complex environment.”

Unlocking automation with private 5G 

These aforementioned examples illustrate the transformative possibilities of automation in warehousing and logistics.

With the right partnerships and technology such as private 5G, automation can positively impact productivity and safety across industries. 

“Private 5G brings a new level of connectivity that has not been available to many enterprises in the past,” Matt concludes.

“Today, many legacy technologies, such as Wi-Fi, are challenged to meet the demands of businesses. Private 5G is able to cover more area with less infrastructure, provide connectivity for highly-mobile applications and the reliable, predictable, low latency required for today’s business-critical applications and devices. 

“The enterprise has a new tool in its wireless toolbelt in the form of private 5G.”  

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