The Ericsson USA 5G Smart Factory has launched a proof of concept using an autonomous 5G mmWave-powered drone to execute indoor missions. Initially focusing on autonomous inventory checks in the factory’s warehouse high racks, the drone’s advanced flight control, 5G-connected docking station, and live video streaming cameras facilitate a variety of sensing solutions within the factory’s dedicated 5G private network.

This proof-of-concept highlights the integration of 5G technology into industrial processes, showcasing the potential for drones to perform autonomous barcode scanning for inventory management in specific warehouse environments. The drone, equipped with the Qualcomm QRB5165 processor and integrated 5G millimeter wave from Telit Cinterion, operates on Ericsson’s end-to-end private 5G network.

As one of the first natively mmWave 5G devices in the factory, the drone marks a shift from traditional wired or Wi-Fi connections to native mmWave 5G connectivity. This eliminates the need for external gateways or hotspots, a requirement in previous applications of mmWave 5G technology. The drone’s 5G connection is powered by the Telit Cinterion FN980m mmWave industrial grade M.2 data card with the Snapdragon X55 5G Modem-RF System, suitable for high-performance and bandwidth-intensive industrial uses.

Although the 5G drone test is currently just a proof of concept and not intended to meet the immediate needs of the USA 5G Smart Factory, it demonstrates the potential of natively mmWave commercial-ready 5G devices for warehouse inventory management.

Carlos H. Torres, Head of Industry 4.0 at Ericsson’s USA 5G Smart Factory, stated: “This successful demo helps lay the foundation for future integration of 5G-powered drones in industrial settings, particularly for inventory management. It also highlights Ericsson’s commitment to advancing the non-mobile broadband ecosystem.”

Dev Singh, Vice President of Business Development at Qualcomm Technologies, commented: “Our 5G mmWave and drone technologies have the potential to transform inventory management. This successful proof of concept with Ericsson, Dronus, and Telit Cinterion demonstrates practical applications in an industrial setting. We look forward to improving efficiency and productivity in the future.”

Marco Ballerini, CEO and founder of Dronus, expressed pride in the collaboration, noting: “Being chosen by a leader in 5G like Ericsson validates our commitment to research and development, enabling us to stand out in the competitive drone sector.”

This initiative underscores the potential of 5G technology in enhancing industrial operations, with promising implications for the future of inventory management and beyond.