EssentiMover: Robot for automated transport of empty beds at the new OUH

The increased time spent on transporting empty beds is due to several factors. Most crucially, new requirements stipulate that all beds must be washed in the bed washer when a patient is discharged. This means that one can no longer settle for manual washing of beds in the ward, which has long been standard in many wards. Simulations for the new OUH show that 150 beds are expected to be washed in the bed washer every day. At the same time, the distances on the new OUH will be longer, so the time spent on transporting empty beds will increase.

AIM

The purpose of the project is to develop a prototype of a robot that can transport empty beds autonomously. The robot will be called by the staff, after which it will drive to the location. Here, the robot will identify the correct bed, automatically connect to the bed and then drive the bed to the destination, where it will automatically park it. When the robot does not have an active task, it will drive to a parking space so that it is not in the way. In addition, the robot will drive itself to a charging station when it is needed.

PARTNERS

• Supply Chain Management, OUH
• Department of Neurology, OUH
• Cleaning and Patient Services, OUH
• Essential Robotics

CCR is responsible for project management and coordination, administration and reporting, as well as general support for activities in the project.

FUNDING

The project has received funding from the Innovation Fund's Innofounder programme and OUH's innovation pool.