Traditional warehouse operations are often inefficient and prone to risks. This research offers a cutting-edge system that integrates drone technology to overcome these challenges. Traditional practices rely heavily on manual methods or handheld devices, which are labor-intensive, prone to human error, and time-consuming. Additionally, manual inspections expose workers to hazardous environments, leading to inefficiencies and safety risks. The proposed system employs drones equipped with high-resolution cameras and advanced technologies such as Optical Character Recognition (OCR) and 3D scanning. These drones perform periodic inventory scans, reading barcodes and QR codes to update inventory data in real-time. Simultaneously, they monitor infrastructure conditions, identifying issues like cracks, rust, or misaligned shelves, enabling proactive maintenance and reducing risks of structural failures.
A core feature of this project is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) for data analysis. AI algorithms identify patterns in inventory discrepancies and infrastructure wear, facilitating rapid decision-making and actionable insights. The inclusion of collision avoidance systems and intelligent navigation ensures safe and efficient drone operation within complex indoor environments.
Preliminary results demonstrate that the system can enhance operational efficiency by up to 60%, reduce labor costs, and improve data accuracy in Warehouse Management Systems (WMS). The project aligns with the Industry 4.0 paradigm, offering a scalable, sustainable solution to modernize logistics and supply chain management. Successful implementation addresses challenges in unstructured environments while advancing the transition to smart warehouses.
This research underscores the potential of drones to redefine warehouse operations, providing safer, faster, and more efficient alternatives to traditional methods. Future work will focus on real-world testing, refining flight paths, and incorporating advanced AI models to further optimize performance and scalability.