News Releases
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE No. 3333
TOKYO, February 4, 2020 - Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (TOKYO: 6503) announced today that it 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. 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. Going forward, Mitsubishi Electric will continue developing the technology in collaboration with developers and mobility manufacturers, aiming to introduce a commercial service after March 2021.
Animated lighting indicates movements of In-Building Mobility
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.
In addition, elevators and access-control systems are linked to coordinate the efficient and safe movement of In-Building Mobilities among people throughout the building, including when moving between floors.
The system also identifies the locations of In-Building Mobilities, including when they break down, by recording the operations of elevators as well as the In-Building Mobilities to visualize the each unit's location on the building dynamic map, to further reduce building-management workloads.
Control of In-Building Mobilities using a building dynamic map
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.
Note that the press releases are accurate at the time of publication but may be subject to change without notice.