12-01, 13:50–14:05 (Asia/Seoul), Vium Hall
This research delves into the evolving interactions between sidewalk delivery robots and pedestrians within urban environments, focusing on the dual objectives of pedestrian safety and effective robot navigation in shared spaces. A comprehensive 3D digital twin model, replicating real-world urban settings, was designed to simulate the multifaceted engagements between humans, robots, and the urban fabric. Incorporated within this simulation was the Pedestrian Aware Model (PAM), a multi-agent system, employed to mimic both robot and human movements.
Employing an agent-based modeling approach, a series of scenarios involving pedestrians, wheelchair users, and robots coexisting in sidewalk spaces were dissected. The salient revelation from this study is the non-contributory role of robots to sidewalk congestion. Through programmed safety buffer zones, robots not only ensure pedestrian safety but also facilitate streamlined navigation, hinting at a feasible harmonious integration.
Despite this, the study unearthed certain challenges. Robots were predominantly implicated in collisions, whereas pedestrians often infringed upon set distance thresholds, emphasizing the imperative for enhanced strategic measures to alleviate these risks. However, the overarching inference remains optimistic: with judicious design and continuous research, robots have the potential to integrate seamlessly with pedestrians, enriching the urban milieu. The simulation model posited in this study stands as a pivotal resource for urban planners and policymakers, guiding them in formulating strategies and policies for smooth robot-human cohabitation.
Quantitative analyses further cement the significance of this research, underscoring nuances like the importance of ample safety buffers around robots to minimize collisions and enhance sidewalk traffic fluidity. In essence, this research pioneers in illuminating the pathways for optimized robot-human coexistence in bustling urban settings.
Dr. Gunho Sohn is a distinguished Associate Professor and Department Chair at the Department of Earth and Science and Engineering at York University. He is also the Inaugural Director of the Mobility Innovation Centre (MOVE). Dr. Sohn's innovative research in urban digital twinning, which combines computer vision, and machine learning, has garnered acclaim for making urban environments smarter, safer, and more sustainable.