EU project seeks to make freight transport more environmentally sustainable

A European Union (EU)-funded project could pave the way for an innovative robotic vehicle and transport system which may help make urban freight transport more environmentally sustainable and more convenient for e-consumers, according to a press release of the European Commission on Monday.

Income from e-sales in the EU in 2013 accounted for 15 percent of total turnover, and e-commerce is expected to grow. But this growth brings with it an increase in freight transport, especially in urban areas, which in turn contributes to air and noise pollution as well as traffic congestion, said the press release.

The electric-powered FURBOT vehicle, a mobile robot van with a forklift, may help ensure environmentally-friendly, timely, and consumer-friendly shipping, said the press release.

Researchers from the project designed a robotic handling system, which allows the automatic loading and unloading of boxes in urban areas.

Moreover, it is large enough to carry two EU-pallet-sized boxes with a maximum height of 170 cm and a total maximum load of one ton.

To address safety, one of the concerns surrounding automated robotic vehicles, FURBOT is equipped with a set of sensors to scan the interior of the vehicle as well as the environment surrounding it.

In addition, a driving assistance system, which includes emergency braking, avoiding obstacles, parking and itinerary assistance, as well as adaptive speed control, ensures further protection.

While it may still take a while before FURBOT starts delivering goods, a field test is planned for the end of 2015 in Barreiro, Portugal, said the press release. Endit