New Robot May Help Passengers Navigate an International Airport

A new robot may help passengers find their way through the airport. The robot in the "Spencer" project is now ready to face the real world at the major international airport Schiphol in Amsterdam.

"Navigating an airport is challenging, there is a lot of glass and a constantly changing environment in terms of temporary obstructions, such as parked luggage trolleys and people everywhere," said Achim Lilenthal, one of the researchers, in a news release.

Even so, the new robot is equipped to handle these obstacles. Over the course of one week, starting on Nov. 30, the robot will be tested in the hustle and bustle of the airport Schiphol. After this test run, the robot will be adjusted for its big premiere in March.

The robot is meant to guide passengers, unaccustomed to navigating international airports, from one gate to another. Researchers have equipped the robot with maps so that it can survey its surroundings and then guide people to the correct locations.

"It is surprisingly difficult to fit all the pieces together," said Lilienthal. "A small error somewhere along the line may take an unpredictably long time to discover and work out."

However, the robot seems to be functioning well. Already, researchers are hoping to use the robot in a range of applications, such as looking after passengers who have missed their flights and have time to kill. In addition, the robot can speak in several languages in order to aid with directions.

"This technology can be used in all robots intended to interact with humans," said Lilienthal. "Autonomous trucks for example, would be more widely accepted if they functioned better in their interaction with humans."

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