"Significant Differentiation"... Hyundai E&C Pours Key Features Like Unmanned Shuttles and Porter Robots Into Apgujeong Reconstruction

Robot Pathways Integrated from the Initial Complex Design

Hyundai Engineering & Construction announced on September 10 that it has proposed a robot-friendly apartment complex for Apgujeong District 2, which is currently undergoing a reconstruction project.

From the initial design stage, the layout and systems were planned with robot operation in mind. Elevators, automatic doors, and communication networks are all designed to be integrated with robots, allowing them to move freely throughout the entire complex. An Internet of Things (IoT)-based control system enables robots to move between floors and open or close doors autonomously. The company explained, "Robots equipped with a physical artificial intelligence (AI) platform will autonomously navigate the entire complex, becoming lifestyle partners for residents."

Within the complex, unmanned shuttles utilizing the demand-responsive mobility service platform "Shucle" from Hyundai Motor Company and Kia will operate. Routes and operating times can be flexibly adjusted in real time according to passenger demand. The goal is to provide efficient and safe transportation for those with mobility challenges.

The complex will also introduce "personal mobility robots" capable of providing customized transportation services. Based on a small autonomous mobile platform, these robots can carry heavy loads to residents' doorsteps after shopping. Using facial recognition and other technologies, they ensure safe and accurate delivery to the intended destination without mishaps. In the future, by integrating various solutions, these robots could also assist residents with limited mobility by guiding them to shared facilities within the complex.

The unmanned firefighting robot can be deployed in environments with high temperatures and toxic gases. Equipped with a thermal imaging camera and specialized equipment, it can respond quickly to fires where human firefighters have limited access. The company also plans to introduce an electric vehicle charging robot. When a vehicle enters the charging area, the robot automatically opens the charging port, connects the cable, and initiates charging. Once charging is complete, the robot disconnects the cable and notifies the vehicle owner. It also detects potential overheating or accident risks in real time during the charging process. This technology enables residents to easily charge their vehicles even when they are away from home.

Valet parking robots will be installed in the commercial parking lots within the complex. Residents can leave their vehicles at designated spots, and the robots will lift the wheels and park the cars in available spaces. The robots can maneuver precisely even in tight spaces, allowing more vehicles to be accommodated in the same area.

For these robotic services, Hyundai Engineering & Construction has pooled the expertise of group affiliates such as Hyundai Motor Group Robotics Lab, Hyundai Rotem, and Hyundai Wia. A company representative stated, "Apgujeong District 2 will be the first city to implement differentiated robotic solutions encompassing mobility, convenience, safety, electric vehicle charging, and parking," adding, "We aim to create a future residential culture where humans and robots coexist, applying a variety of technologies and services."