ROUTE
An inclusive wayfinding robot that leads travelers through the airport while it tows their luggage.
A strap on its side clips round the suitcase, so your hands stay free.
About
ROUTE guides travelers who need extra help, such as visually impaired passengers, older adults and wheelchair users. Like a guide dog, it steers around obstacles before the traveler reaches them.
“Enhancing mobility without taking away control.”
ROUTE · design principle
Why airport wayfinding matters
Travelers with low vision, limited mobility or heavy bags often end up stressed, lost and dependent on others.
“Airport wayfinding is not just about finding the right place, but about feeling in control and independent.”
Weijun ZhangBlind since birth · Ph.D. researcher in accessibility, UIUC
- Entrance
- Check-in
- Security
- Gate
Finding the right destination
Finding the way with luggage
Today's aids react too late
Asking for help costs independence
Airport robots are mostly kiosks. They don't walk with you or carry anything.
Heavy luggage makes it hard to fly alone
- Reminds you when it's time to go
- Carries the bags
- Hands over between transport
The airport is unfamiliar
- Voice assistance
- Emergency help
- Walks at your speed
Travelers who need help don't want to be noticed
- Personal, discreet service
- Cues by vibration
- Airport information built in
How might we help travelers move through complex public spaces on their own while managing their luggage?
Design
Storyboard
It checks the traveler’s flight, straps on the suitcase and leads the way.
The name
ROUTE means the right way. The R stands for right and robot.
SimplePersonalService
How it works
Try it: send ROUTE somewhere
Tap a destination.
Where to
ListeningSay a gate or tap one on the plan.
The pull-ringHold it and ROUTE leads; the ring tells you what is coming.
A schematic, played faster than walking speed.
Everything in one body
Handle, luggage straps, sensors and a dock.
Leads like a guide dog
A vibrating pull-ring on an elastic line. The braille STOP inside the ring pauses it at once.
Tows the luggage
Straps on both sides clip around the suitcases.
Shows where it is going
Arrows on the floor ahead, and it steers around the crowd.
Listens and talks
Voice requests and guidance in several languages; the screen shows what it is doing.
Goes back to charge
Returns to its dock when it isn't needed.
