Italian tech company e-Novia have developed an AI-based self-driving transport and delivery robot named YAPE.
The self-driving transport robot was built to help passengers carry small luggage and navigate through the terminals.
“YAPE can be deployed in the most diverse environments. After the trials with Japan Post and a major large-scale distributor in the U.S., YAPE now demonstrates its full potiential by operating at a major aviation hub. Air traffic represents one of the prime drivers of the global economy. With our expertise in AI and robotics – of which YAPE is one of the best examples – e-Novia is developing new solutions for smart mobiltiy and last-mile delivery.” Vincenzo Russi, CEO of e-Novia
“As a leader in innovation, we constantly strive to push forward new digital technologies aimed at enhancing the travel experience for our passengers. Our aim with YAPE is to test which aspects of artificial intelligence and robotics can help to further improve the quality of services at Frankfurt Airport.” Alexander Laukenmann, Airside and Terminal Management unit at Fraport AG
During the trials in Pier A of FRA’s Terminal 1, the project coordinators closely monitored YAPE. In this initial phase, a smartphone app was used to interact with the robot.
Passengers placed their small luggage in the robot’s luggage compartment and let YAPE guide them to their gates.
The robot is able to freely move throughout the terminal thanks to its integrated navigation system. In the next phase the compact robot will interact autonomously with passengers.
