Hyundai-Kia self-driving delivery robot successfully crosses pedestrian crossing with traffic signal information

On Friday (9th), Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Motors successfully demonstrated the crosswalk driving of an autonomous delivery robot at a crosswalk in front of Bugok Police Station in Uiwang City, Gyeonggi-do, with the participation of the National Police Agency, Korea Expressway Corporation, and Uiwang City officials, marking a step forward in the Robot Intelligence Society.

The demonstration consisted of a scenario in which Hyundai-Kia's autonomous delivery robot, DAL-e Delivery, recognised traffic signals and safely crossed a pedestrian crossing in connection with the traffic system. With the amendment and implementation of the Road Traffic Act ('23.10.19.) and the Act on Promotion of Intelligent Robot Development and Distribution ('23.11.17.) last year, outdoor mobile robots that are certified and insured have the same rights as pedestrians.

The demonstration is significant in that it is the first demonstration of a robot crossing a pedestrian crossing using traffic signal information since the relevant law was revised. With the government's real-time traffic signal information sharing system in operation, it is expected that outdoor delivery services using autonomous robots will be possible anywhere in the country, starting with this demonstration.

To demonstrate the technology, Hyundai-Kia linked the Robotics Lab's robot control system with the National Police Agency's 'real-time traffic signal collection and provision system' and developed the technology to control the robot according to traffic signals. Based on the traffic signal information, the control system calculates the flashing order and waiting time of traffic lights in advance and guides the robot to the optimal route to reduce travel time, and the robot moves the route while avoiding people or obstacles based on autonomous driving technology and crosses the crosswalk according to the instructions of the control system.

The robot control system is also configured to control multiple robots. Even if multiple robots are operating simultaneously, they can check signal information and cross intersections without any problems, allowing for free expansion.

Hyundai-Kia's self-driving delivery robot, Daly Delivery, uses AI vision technology on board the robot to check the traffic signal information once more on its own. Even if there are occasional errors in the signalling system, the robot can check the traffic light information by itself, allowing it to move safely. In addition, the robot is equipped with four PnD (Plug and Drive) modules, allowing it to navigate around corners in the optimal route with natural avoidance movements. Two lidar and four camera modules provide accurate perception of the surroundings, enabling safe autonomous driving.

"Building the infrastructure is essential for building a robotically intelligent society," said a representative from Hyundai-Kia Robotics Lab. "We will continue to work with the government to ensure that everyone can safely use robotics technology and contribute to social convenience."

Meanwhile, Hyundai-Kia Robotics Lab is building elevators, security gates, and other infrastructure standards for robot-friendly buildings with partners in smart architecture at home and abroad, and is continuing to develop technologies to extend this to outdoor infrastructure connectivity.

Article roadtesting editorial (dhseo1208@gmail.com)

Photo Hyundai Motor Company