Jacksonville, AL –When JSU announced that Kiwibot will be the new delivery service on campus, there was excitement and trepidation. In an 7/25/2022 Jacksonville City Council Work-session there was discussion of the potential risks for pedestrians and traffic pedestrians. After a period of about six months in operation, Kiwibot has had no problems and has been very well-liked on campus. According to Renee Lyons, Marketing Manager, Sodexo for JSU, Kiwibot has been very well received at JSU as were 996 deliveries throughout the month of January.
One of the main concerns is: how can Kiwibot navigate itself? The robots are relying heavily on GPS technology, which is a high-tech satellite system that offers high-quality areas for self-driving robots. They also use the data from camera sensors with AI techniques to overcome obstructions and use an algorithm for navigation that creates multi-kilometer routes , which allow them to achieve an established goal. The robot detects a specific point in a satellite map that is within the limits of campus and then navigates it on its own. It operates in a the most suitable locations, which are pre-mapped and employs a mix of positioning systems powered by systems that use perception. “At Kiwibot, cutting-edge technology that is sweeping through campus will help the community by offering efficient delivery and is an inspiration source for students. Their purpose and presence is to inspire minds and develop innovative, sustainable concepts which can enhance their own as well as their community’s lives,” said Felipe Chavez co-founder and chief executive officer of Kiwibot.
The most pressing question appears to be whether robots are secure for pedestrians? The short answer is yes , according to Kiwibot. “At Kiwibot we are improving people’s lives by providing delivery services to all. Since 2017, we’ve made it our mission to transform last-mile delivery into a practical service and creating a future in which humans and robots coexist in harmony.” To make sure that their customers are safe and to ensure that they are in compliance with every regulation and law at campuses as well as in the cities where they operate operations. They depend on the latest technology to ensure the safety of pedestrians. This, in conjunction with a semi-autonomous system of driving which allows the robots create a virtual image of the world in real-time with high-tech sensors such as reflective flags, night lighting and lidars with range. If additional assistance is required, every delivery robot relies on on-site and remote support to ensure safe, speedy and efficient operations. In addition, they’re completing every delivery robot with zero carbon emissions, which is helping to reduce our carbon footprint while ensure sustainable mobility in cities and campuses.
A few years ago automated vehicles were things of sci-fi fantasies. Today, they’re becoming real and will become part of our daily lives within the next 2 up to 10 years. Absolutely, robot delivery will be the next frontier in delivery technology. The sector was already increasing pre-pandemically, but the last the two-year period of social isolation and the increased need for the delivery service of food have led to rapid innovation and growth in this area. Jacksonville State University is excited to be among the universities that are highlighting the technology and services.
