Visitors to Cyberport's Waterfront Park may have recently observed a unique addition: Hong Kong's inaugural autonomous vending cart navigating pedestrian pathways. This groundbreaking vehicle is also the first of its kind to secure a permit from the Transport Department for trial runs.
Distinct from other autonomous vehicles developed in Hong Kong for roads, this cart is specifically engineered for pedestrian zones, emphasizing close interactions with park visitors. Cyberport launched this project to meet the demand for convenient refreshments among Waterfront Park visitors while simultaneously exploring the feasibility of adapting this type of autonomous technology for other uses, such as vending, cleaning, patrolling and goods transportation, adhering to government regulations.
The idea for this autonomous vehicle began with a team of passionate engineers and designers determined to overcome the logistical challenges posed by traditional vending machines at the Waterfront Park. They collaborated meticulously with a government department, a research institute, and a telecommunications operator to navigate regulatory requirements and technical hurdles.
The team painstakingly customized and optimized various technologies for the autonomous vehicle, including advanced GPS navigation for precise movement, an eco-friendly power supply system for sustainability, and a user-friendly interface for seamless customer interaction. The vehicle also features a refrigeration system to ensure drinks and snacks remain cool during Hong Kong's hot summers.
The cart is currently collecting data to help the team refine its operation and establish standards. This information will also be valuable to the Transport Department when approving public use of this autonomous vending cart.
Beyond the Waterfront Park, the team has identified potential for use of the cart in other public parks that lack food kiosks. This would eliminate the need for costly and time-consuming construction projects while improving public services.
This project exemplifies Cyberport’s commitment to innovation and its role in Hong Kong’s Smart City development by not only enhancing the visitor experience at Cyberport, but also setting a precedent for the integration of autonomous technologies into the everyday lives of citizens.
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