Robots in Punggol to get help to cross the road when they deliver food and go on patrol
These robots may not have robotic arms to physically press the pedestrian push buttons.
Robots are set to play a role in delivering food and conducting patrols in Punggol, Singapore, following the authorities' plans to enhance their road safety. To ensure the safe navigation of autonomous mobile robots in the area, a trial project is being conducted under the Punggol Digital District. Authorities aim to install sensors at traffic lights at pedestrian crossings on Punggol Way and New Punggol Road.
These sensors will enable robots to activate pedestrian push buttons at the junction, as the robots may not possess robotic arms to physically press the buttons. The long-range ultra-high frequency radio frequency identification antennas will be placed at four locations across the junction, including a slip road near Block 433A Northshore Drive, Block 446A of Punggol Point Cove, and two more points along Punggol Way.
The sensors will allow robots to cross the road safely, similar to the way pedestrians press a button and wait for the green man. The trial will assess the use of autonomous robots in a real-world environment, and any future expansion will be determined by operational needs and trial results. Safety measures, including safety tests, low-speed operation, high visibility, monitoring, and route restrictions, will be enforced.
Local authorities mentioned that additional sensors may be installed based on the success of the trial and operational requirements.
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