Private 5G Networks Drive Drone Adoption in Logistics
The telecommunications industry's deployment of private 5G networks is addressing a critical challenge in industrial automation: providing reliable connectivity for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in logistics operations.
UAVs are emerging as a solution for automation in warehousing as organisations seek to digitise operations. The devices require high-bandwidth, low-latency connectivity to transmit data in real-time to ground control stations.
"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," says Matt Addicks, Head of Product Marketing for Private Networks at Ericsson.
"By using drones and robots, logistics businesses can save time and personnel resources, allowing employees to concentrate on more complex, value-adding work."
Warehouse automation drives efficiency
However, UAVs have faced limitations with traditional wireless networks. WiFi coverage often proves insufficient for large facilities, while public cellular networks can struggle with the low-latency requirements needed for real-time drone control and data transmission.
Private 5G networks can provide the technical capabilities required for UAV deployment. These networks deliver sub-10 millisecond latency, throughput of up to 1 gigabit per second, and coverage across industrial sites spanning several square kilometres.
The technology enables UAVs to transmit high-definition video feeds, telemetry data, and control signals while maintaining connection stability - essential requirements for automated warehouse operations and port security applications.
- Eliminates need for warehouse section closure during inventory counts
- Reduces requirement for forklift operation at height
- Enables 24/7 inventory counting operations
The limitations of manual inventory management continue to impact logistics operations. Current methods involve temporary staff conducting repetitive counting tasks, often requiring the closure of warehouse sections and the use of forklifts to access high storage areas.
Technology firm Cypher Robotics has developed an integrated system combining aerial and ground robotics to automate inventory cycle counting. The solution operates over Ericsson's Private 5G network infrastructure to enable real-time data transmission to warehouse management systems.
"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," says Matt.
"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."
He adds: "The solution has already been trialled with great success by a major Canadian retailer with more than 300 sites across the country."
Demonstrating the powerful capabilities of 5G
"Private 5G brings a new level of connectivity that has not been available to many enterprises in the past. Today, many legacy technologies, such as Wi-Fi, are challenged to meet the demands of businesses."
The Port of Tyne in the UK has implemented a private 5G-connected autonomous drone system in partnership with robotics software company Unmanned Life, telecommunications provider BT, and Ericsson.
The system automates security patrols and inspections across the port facility. The drone platform can identify anomalies including gas leaks and unauthorised personnel through machine learning algorithms.
"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," Matt explains.
"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."
Private 5G networks provide wider coverage than WiFi while delivering the performance requirements for mobile applications. Matt says: "Private 5G brings a new level of connectivity that has not been available to many enterprises in the past."
"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."
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