Mitsubishi Electric has developed a technology for controlling in-building mobile robots used for cleaning, security, delivery and guidance, as well as next-generation electric wheelchairs, using building dynamic maps to achieve cooperative interaction between the robots, etc. and building facilities, such as elevators and access control systems. Mitsubishi Electric’s newly developed building dynamic map is utilized to control the movements of multiple In-Building Mobilities within a building.
When the In-Building Mobilities use elevators or pass by each other in narrow aisles, the system automatically guides them along the best routes to avoid hitting other In-Building Mobilities, entering prohibited areas or boarding crowded elevators. When passing through an access-control gate, the system uses the map to prioritize the movements of people as well as to prevent collisions. By supporting the safe, efficient movement of people and In-Building Mobilities in buildings, the new technology is expected to reduce the workloads of building-management personnel and help realize smart buildings in which people and robots coexist safely.
Animated lighting is displayed on the floors in front of elevators to help people anticipate the movements of In-Building Mobilities that are getting on and off the elevators, allowing people to smoothly and safely enter and exit elevators together with the In-Building Mobility. Animated lighting is also displayed as In-Building Mobilities move in other areas, allowing people to pass safely even in narrow passageways or in poor visibility.
