Link: Ikea’s stock-counting warehouse drones will fly alongside workers in the US

Ikea has introduced an advanced stock-counting drone system in the US, enhancing efficiency in its distribution centers. These autonomous drones, which started installation this summer in Perryville, Maryland, now operate 24/7 with a new AI system that allows them to assist workers by tracking and organizing inventory.

The drones, developed in partnership with Verity, were initially used during non-operational hours but can now navigate continuously alongside human employees.

This upgrade not only improves inventory accuracy but also identifies misplaced items, thanks to their obstacle detection system which prevents collisions.

Parag Parekh, Ikea's chief digital officer, states that these drones use a custom indoor positioning system to manage tasks at high storage levels.

Moreover, Ikea is enhancing the drones' capabilities, including features that inspect storage racks and unit loads.

With over 250 drones across 73 warehouses in nine countries, Ikea continues to expand this technology in Europe and North America.

This expansion aims to alleviate physical strain on workers, allowing them to focus on less demanding and more engaging tasks. #

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