Fly, count, optimize: A bird‘s eye view of inventory

How AI and drones can reduce inventory labor by up to 90%.

The cover of the abat white paper on the topic: Inventory from a bird's eye view.

The White Paper covers an innovative approach to inventory automation using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and drone technology that can reduce the manual effort of a traditional inventory by up to 90%. It focuses on the application of various methods specifically designed to minimize manual counting while increasing visibility and traceability.

In his White Paper, René Kessler presents various AI methods, from machine learning to deep learning, and discusses how these technologies can be adapted and optimized specifically for the inventory process. He also describes how algorithms can be combined with drones to enable spatially comprehensive and efficient inventory. It also presents real-world application examples that illustrate the functionality and benefits of the technology in real-world scenarios. The White Paper also discusses the potential benefits, such as cost savings and improved data quality, as well as the challenges, such as integration with existing systems and data security, associated with implementing these advanced technologies.

Overall, the White Paper serves as a comprehensive guide for companies looking for ways to streamline their inventory processes and provides an in-depth look at how technology can be applied in this area.
 

FAQs

1. How does an automated inventory with drones work?

Drones autonomously capture inventory using image processing and AI. They fly predefined routes, photograph pallets and goods, and analyze the images in real time. AI models precisely detect, count, and classify inventory — optionally in 3D via photogrammetry. The data integrates seamlessly into systems like SAP EWM. The result: a fast, error-free, and fully automated warehouse inventory.

2. What advantages does AI bring to inventory management?

Artificial intelligence reduces manual effort, saves time, and increases inventory accuracy. AI systems automatically recognize products via barcode or RFID. Combined with drones, AI enables more frequent, efficient, and transparent stocktaking. Automated documentation with timestamps and images improves traceability and optimizes processes throughout the supply chain.

3. How much effort can be saved through warehouse automation?

Using drones and AI can reduce inventory effort by up to 90%. One person is enough to operate the drone; counting and analysis are automated. Instead of manual data capture, drone images provide precise data for AI evaluation. This saves time, personnel, and resources.

4. Which companies are suitable for automated inventory?

Automated inventory solutions are suitable for companies with physical warehouse stock, especially with large outdoor warehouses, block storage, or high racks. Practical examples like Getränke Essmann and Diephaus Betonwerk demonstrate successful integration of geocoded storage locations and block warehouses. Thanks to modular technology, the solution flexibly adapts to different warehouse types and IT systems (e.g., SAP).

5. How can a drone inventory be integrated into SAP EWM?

Drone inventory can be seamlessly integrated into SAP EWM — via standardized interfaces and a web application (on-premises or cloud). After transferring images, they are automatically analyzed, storage locations and articles are recognized, and data is reconciled with SAP inventory records.

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