Automated Robotic Delivery System

Aethon’s TUG robot is designed to transport medications, meals, supplies, equipment, lab specimens, linens and trash. The robots do not require special architecture considerations or infrastructure and can be designed to integrate into both existing facilities and new construction to accommodate departments that are not centralized, and can reduce the need for additional staff to make deliveries.

 

The robots are designed to delivery around the clock, can tow up to 500 pounds, never call in sick, don’t require workers’ compensation coverage, and free-up clinical staff to focus on patient care. Hospitals usually realize an ROI of 20 to 50 percent, according to the company.

 

The robot can be paired with any type of cart to meet the specific needs of the hospital and uses an on-board map to navigate hospital corridors and can communicate with elevator control systems, which allows them to move from one floor to the next. The robots can detect obstacles, including humans, and will communicate their actions and intentions with such phrases as “Your delivery has arrived” or “Entering hallway,” according to the company.