RAPIDO (Robot to Assist passengers with Reduced Mobility)
The demand for autonomy among people with mobility difficulties is constantly growing. Furthermore, in line with the EU's Agenda 2030 recommendations (Goals 9 and 11), there is still much to be done to develop innovative assistive technology solutions for mobility. This project aims to develop an autonomous electric vehicle designed specifically for use in airports, where assistance is mandatory and requires significant investment in terms of costs and personnel. During this experimental phase, the device is designed to be accessible directly to certain user categories without the need for third-party assistance. It is equipped with an autonomous driving system that can transport users to the main areas of the airport for boarding and disembarking without any action required from the passenger. Great attention has been paid to the vehicle's ergonomic design, safety features, navigation system, communication with the airport IT infrastructure and spatial requirements. This concept could be adapted for use in other environments, such as hospitals, stations, hotels and other large public spaces where such a service would be beneficial.
THE OBJECTIVE
The project aims to develop and validate a new automated assistance system for PRMs (passengers with reduced mobility) at airports. The system will improve the quality of service for passengers and optimise the organisation of work for airport staff. One of the primary objectives is to address the EU's recommendations in Agenda 2030 for Goals 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) and 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). Specifically, the project addresses points 9.1 and 11.2, which read as follows:
9.1: 'Develop quality, reliable, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure, including regional and cross-border infrastructure, to support economic development and human well-being, with a focus on providing equitable access for all'.
11.2: 'Provide access to safe, affordable, sustainable, and intermodal transport for all, [...] notably by expanding public, collective, and shared transport, with particular attention to the needs of those in vulnerable situations, women, children, persons with disabilities, and older persons'.
The introduction of autonomous devices at airports will benefit passengers by reducing waiting times and improving service quality, while enabling airport staff to provide more attentive and timely assistance. The result will be greater service efficiency, even for passengers who request assistance without having made advance reservations. Furthermore, the development of smart devices will drive technological innovation in personal assistance. This is not only because such a service does not currently exist, but also because it represents an operational model that can be replicated in airports around the world — especially large ones — to deliver enormous functional and economic advantages. Finally, the project can be transferred and scaled to other sectors where personal assistance is required, such as hospitals and hotels, as well as all large public spaces, including railway stations and shopping centres.
The collaboration between the project partners is based on tackling common challenges and promoting sustainable development and the exchange of skills to stimulate cultural diversity and encourage cross-border integration.
PARTNERS INVOLVED
- Klaxon Mobility GmbH
- INTERCOM SOLUTIONS SRL
- AER TRE spa Treviso Airport
PROJECT DURATION: 01/05/2023- 31/03/2026
TOTAL BUDGET: € 834.127,90