Intelligent Transportation System

Description

The project's main goal was to develop and implement an Intelligent Transport System (ITS) in Rovisco Pais Hospital for patients with mobility limitations, allowing them to move between different buildings in this complex using autonomous, non-pollutant electric cars.
Rovisco Pais Hospital is a rehabilitation center in the central region of Portugal, installed in a former leper colony consisting of several buildings which are a considerable distance from each other within an area of 144 ha. Most of the hospital patients have severe mobility problems; they are accommodated in one building and have their physiotherapy activities in another. Previously, the hospital had 2 minivans to provide transport for patients between different buildings. These transportation vehicles were limited by the availability of the drivers and incurred considerable operational costs in addition to their environmental impact.
The Intelligent Transport System (ITS) developed by LAS, uses electric vehicles designed to be easily used for small trips at low speed in urban or private environments to complement regular public transport. The vehicle's exclusive feature is its autonomy - it is a fully automated vehicle without a driver. This driverless solution is also silent and has zero emissions, therefore contributing to a healthier quality of life. It is also able to use solar energy as it is only activated when it is called to service (demand response), avoiding unnecessary energy waste. Moreover, this small minibus is equipped with ramps for wheelchair access and circulates in a predetermined circuit with the ability to avoid potential obstacles. The operation of "Move" is very simple and user-friendly for its passengers: patients, employees and visitors.

Technology Transfer Process:

The Move technology was transferred to a spin-off company (http://www.tulaauto.com) that is selling automated people movers to private spaces (hospitals, resorts and airports, among others).