HSUHK scholars win Gold Medal with Jury Congratulations at International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva with Hong Kong’s first real-time smart warehouse system integrating AI, drones, and AR
The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong (HSUHK)’s School of Decision Sciences and Chef Digital Limited have developed “WarehouseGenie”, Hong Kong’s first real-time smart warehouse system integrating artificial intelligence (AI), drones, and augmented reality (AR). The innovation won the Gold Medal with Jury Congratulations at the International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva 2026 on 14 March. The system leverages advanced technologies—including generative AI (GenAI), drones, AR, and the Internet of Things (IoT)—to address key challenges in the warehousing sector, such as high staff turnover, complex standard operating procedures, and rising demands for safety and accuracy.
WarehouseGenie’s platform operates in dual-modes—operational and training—seamlessly linking real-time data with virtual overlays to create an AI-assisted, smart working environment. In operations mode, frontline workers receive instant, step-by-step guidance through AR smart glasses for safe and precise task execution. Simultaneously, drones provide live monitoring, while IoT sensors track key metrics, such as workers’ movement paths, picking times, error rates, and safety incidents. The AI engine analyses both real-time and historical data, benchmarking performance against industry standards and internal records. These insights empower management to identify bottlenecks, implement targeted improvements, lower turnover, and boost overall productivity.
In training mode, WarehouseGenie recreates high-pressure scenarios like “Black Friday” peak-season operations, enabling new hires to engage in hands-on practice guided by AR instructions and to receive immediate performance feedback. This immersive approach is projected to reduce traditional training time by up to 40%, enabling faster onboarding, better skill acquisition, and improved workplace safety.
Project leader Dr George Ho, Associate Professor in the Department of Supply Chain and Information Management, stated, “WarehouseGenie transforms traditional labour-intensive warehouses into intelligent, AI-driven collaborative ecosystems. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies, it allows new employees to quickly master essential skills, while significantly enhancing productivity, workflow efficiency, and occupational safety. The system also paves the way for sustainable business models and new opportunities in the retail and logistics sectors.”
The project have received approximately HK$1 million in funding from the Research Matching Grant Scheme of the University Grants Committee.
