The convergence of AI and physical robotics could be reshaping the future of warehouse management, as demonstrated through a ground-breaking pilot programme between SAP and refrigeration specialist BITZER.
The collaboration showcases how embodied AI—artificial intelligence integrated with physical robotic forms, has the potential to transform traditional warehouse operations into highly efficient, autonomous systems.
SAP’s Project Embodied AI represents a significant step in the evolution of intelligent automation. Rather than relying on conventional software-based AI solutions, the project combines artificial intelligence with physical robots that can interact with the real world using real-time data.
The initiative takes this further by making these robots cognitive through SAP Business AI, enabling them to make decisions and operate with minimal human intervention.
To explore the practical applications of this technology, SAP’s Research and Innovation team established a Physical AI and Cognitive Robots Exploration Council, bringing together innovation professionals from various industries.
BITZER, a specialist in refrigeration and air conditioning manufacturing, joined this council and subsequently became the proof-of-concept testing ground for the embodied AI robots.
Cognitive robotics in action
The partnership between BITZER and SAP could offer valuable insights into how AI-driven automation might address longstanding challenges in warehouse management. BITZER’s operations are critical for maintaining temperature-controlled supply chains across multiple sectors, from hospital operating theatres to supermarket refrigeration systems.
The company’s compressors play a vital role in preserving medication, perishable goods in shipping containers and frozen food processing.
Christian Stenzel, Vice President of Organisation and IT at BITZER, explains the company’s approach: “Optimising business processes is as important as product innovation at BITZER.”
This philosophy aligned perfectly with SAP’s vision for AI integration in physical operations. As a RISE with SAP customer, BITZER already utilises the SAP Business Technology Platform and SAP Extended Warehouse Management, providing the necessary infrastructure to test embodied AI capabilities.
“Demand-driven production is key in our business,” Christian adds, highlighting why autonomous robotic systems could prove valuable for the company’s operations.
The existing infrastructure at BITZER created an ideal environment for testing how embodied AI could integrate with established enterprise systems. The company’s commitment to process optimisation made it a natural partner for exploring how cognitive robotics might enhance operational efficiency in real-world warehouse settings.
Autonomous systems demonstrate potential
The proof of concept deployed NEURA’s 4NE1 humanoid robot within BITZER’s warehouse environment. According to the trial results, the embodied AI system demonstrated several key capabilities that could indicate a shift in warehouse automation approaches.
The integration between SAP Extended Warehouse Management and physical warehouse operations occurred without requiring expensive or time-consuming middleware solutions. This seamless connectivity could suggest that embodied AI systems might be more readily deployable than traditional automation technologies.
The robots displayed a high degree of independence when performing tasks, operating without manual or human involvement. Their ability to function continuously across 24/7 operations could enable businesses to adapt to fluctuating demand and maintain consistent productivity levels.
Additionally, the system appeared to minimise operational errors through automated material order creation, potentially reducing the bottlenecks that frequently occur in warehouse environments.
Dr Lukasz Ostrowski, Head of Embodied AI and Robotics at SAP, reflects on the significance of the trial: “The proof of concept at BITZER is great first step for experiencing first-hand how the impact of SAP Business AI can be extended into physical operations.”
The future of intelligent automation
For businesses like BITZER, where maintaining unbroken cold chains is essential, the efficiency gains demonstrated through embodied AI could prove particularly valuable. The technology’s potential to operate autonomously across different shifts whilst meeting demand at an accelerated pace could represent a significant advancement in supply chain management.
Dr Ostrowski notes that the project will continue to evolve: “Further proofs of concept are planned as Project Embodied AI continues to assess the business value of embodied AI for customers.”
As SAP expands its exploration of cognitive robotics, the BITZER pilot could serve as a blueprint for how AI-driven physical automation might be deployed across various industries, potentially transforming how businesses approach warehouse operations and supply chain efficiency.
The implications of this technology extend beyond warehouse management alone. As embodied AI systems become more sophisticated, they could address labour shortages, improve workplace safety and enable businesses to scale operations more effectively without compromising quality or consistency.
The collaboration between SAP and BITZER demonstrates how emerging technologies can be tested and refined in practical settings. By combining advanced AI capabilities with physical robotics, companies may find new ways to optimise their operations whilst maintaining the flexibility needed to respond to changing market demands.
