Panasonic Corporation today announced that it will begin its demonstration experiments with the Autonomous Delivery Robot, “HOSPI(R),” from mid-January 2017 in cooperation with the Narita International Airport Corporation and the ANA Crowne Plaza Narita.
HOSPI(R) is a robot that can deliver goods autonomously on behalf of humans. Based on preprogrammed map information and using high performance sensors and advanced collision-avoidance algorithm, the robot can move about while staying aware of its surroundings, enabling it to deliver items safely and efficiently without colliding into passersby or various objects along its route.
Unlike traditional delivery systems, equipment does not need to be embedded into the walls or ceilings, and guide tapes do not have to be laid down along the route, so delivery destinations and layout changes to facilities may be easily made and at low cost. Being recognized for these features, the HOSPI(R) has already been adopted by 4 hospitals in Japan and other countries for the delivery of pharmaceuticals and specimens.
In the demonstration experiments to be conducted, the robots will be retrieving used dishware in the airport lounge and offering drink service in the hotel lobby. Through these demonstration experiments, Panasonic will be verifying the utility of the HOSPI(R) in performing other types of delivery services and accelerating the commercial development of the HOSPI(R).