Chinese firm Pudu Robotics has upgraded its FlashBot building delivery robot to allow intelligent delivery to outdoor areas in hotels, office buildings, apartments, healthcare centres and hospitals.

Traditional building delivery robots are predominantly confined to indoor settings, leaving many semi-outdoor delivery scenarios unfulfilled. Areas such as hotel gardens, swimming pool zones, open terraces in office buildings, and hospital outdoor gardens have significant delivery needs but are often underserved.

To bridge these service gaps, Pudu Robotics has introduced the FlashBot, designed to operate in semi-outdoor environments. This not only expands the reach of delivery services but also enhances their quality, transitioning robots from purely indoor settings to semi-outdoor areas.

The FlashBot uses Pudu’s VSlam+ technology for precise and quick navigation, enhancing positioning accuracy and adaptability. It seamlessly navigates between indoor and semi-outdoor areas such as garden pathways, fitness zones and poolside edges, handling various dynamic, mixed-use environments. This makes it suitable for hotel room service and other semi-outdoor applications.

By integrating with various IoT devices including access control systems, e-gates, elevators, telephones and Bluetooth speakers, it navigates buildings autonomously, delivering end-to-end intelligence. This integration boosts operational efficiency, providing an interconnected smart-building experience.

Enhanced elevator control alongside efficient mapping tools are tailored for multi-floor operations. It supports cloud-based elevator systems compatible with major brands such as Kone and Otis without the need for modifications. Furthermore, the mapping tool facilitates rapid multi-floor map replication and building management, increasing deployment efficiency and convenience.

Modular compartments have independently controlled doors for flexible and efficient delivery of multiple packages in one trip. Security is ensured with access methods such as passwords, mobile numbers and NFC readers, allowing only authorised access. Built-in fans provide constant air circulation, removing odours and maintaining hygiene. This ensures reliable, secure and clean deliveries.

Its 70cm width navigates narrow corridors and diverse elevators, while 3D obstacle avoidance technology ensures smooth navigation around obstacles. Enhanced multi-robot collaboration and intelligent task distribution reduce wait times, optimising performance in crowded environments. Automatic recharging and a dual-side suspension system ensure continuous and stable operation across various terrains. This combination is said to guarantee agile, efficient and reliable deliveries in any building setting.

“The new FlashBot is a reflection of Pudu Robotics’ dedication to ongoing innovation and prioritising our customers’ needs,” said Felix Zhang, CEO of Pudu Robotics. “By expanding its operational capabilities to include semi-outdoor environments, we are delivering an even more versatile and dependable option. This ensures that our clients benefit from consistent, high-quality delivery services, no matter the setting.”

The upgraded FlashBot (www.pudurobotics.com/products/flashbot-new) can enhance smart building delivery, making services more convenient and intelligent. This is not only a breakthrough in building delivery but can be a key driver for the future of smart buildings and smart cities worldwide.

To date, Pudu Robotics (www.pudurobotics.com) has shipped nearly 80,000 units to various markets, with a presence in more than 60 countries and regions worldwide.