TransRob Autonomous Mobile Robot

TransRob Autonomous Mobile Robot series from Swisslog Healthcare provides infrastructure-free autonomous transport within hospitals, handling payloads from 300kg to 600kg without requiring magnetic strips, guide wires, or floor modifications. Using laser SLAM navigation combined with visual sensors, TransRob robots navigate hospital corridors, call elevators, pass through doors, and avoid obstacles while delivering medications, supplies, and linens throughout multi-floor facilities.

Product Overview

Unlike traditional AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle) systems that require fixed infrastructure such as magnetic strips or embedded wires, TransRob uses Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) technology to build and continuously update environmental maps. This approach enables rapid deployment, flexible routing, and easy adaptation when hospital layouts change.

The TransRob series complements Swisslog’s pneumatic tube systems by handling items too large, heavy, or sensitive for tube transport. While pneumatic systems excel at small urgent items (samples, medications), TransRob addresses bulk supply delivery, heavy equipment transport, and “last mile” distribution to nursing stations.

Product Variants

TransRob-C (Box-Type)

• Payload: 300kg
• Speed: Average 1 m/s
• Configuration: Enclosed box compartment
• Use Case: Medication carts, sterile supplies, general logistics

TransRob-S (Detachable Chassis)

• Payload: 600kg
• Configuration: Reusable base with interchangeable cargo carts
• Use Case: Heavy/oversized items, scheduled bulk transport

Key Features

Built for hospital supply chains requiring no floor modifications, TransRob’s laser SLAM navigation handles 300–600kg payloads, automatically calls elevators, and interfaces with door access systems across multi-floor facilities.

• Laser SLAM Navigation: No floor modifications, magnetic strips, or guide wires required
• Visual Obstacle Detection: Cameras and sensors identify people, doors, carts, and other obstacles
• Automatic Elevator Integration: Robot control station interfaces with elevator systems for autonomous floor changes
• Door and Access Control: Integrates with hospital door systems for direct passage
• Multi-task Scheduling: Central software manages fleet routing and task prioritization
• Autonomous Charging: Robots navigate to charging stations when battery levels require
• IoT Connectivity: Real-time status monitoring and fleet management via connected platform

Technical Specifications

CE-marked and FDA-commercialized, TransRob-C carries 300kg at 1 m/s in an enclosed box configuration, while TransRob-S handles 600kg via a detachable chassis with interchangeable cargo carts.

Clinical Applications

Pharmacy to Ward Delivery: TransRob transports medication carts from central pharmacy to nursing stations on scheduled routes, reducing pharmacist delivery burden and ensuring timely medication availability.

Supply Chain Distribution: Sterile supplies, medical consumables, and equipment move from central stores to departments without dedicated courier staff.

Linen and Waste Transport: Clean linen delivery and contaminated linen collection operate on scheduled routes, maintaining infection control protocols through sealed transport.

Laboratory Specimen Transport: For facilities without pneumatic tube systems or for specimens too large/sensitive for tubes, TransRob provides an alternative transport modality.

System Architecture

TransRob deployments typically include:

1. Robot Fleet: Multiple TransRob units based on facility transport volume
2. Robot Control Station: Central software managing task assignment, routing, and fleet status
3. Elevator Interface: Hardware/software integration enabling autonomous floor changes
4. Door/Access Integration: Interfaces with hospital access control systems
5. Charging Infrastructure: Strategically placed charging stations
6. Mobile Monitoring: Tablet-based supervision and manual intervention capability

The system integrates with Hospital Information Systems to receive transport requests automatically from clinical workflows, pharmacy dispensing systems, and supply chain management platforms.

Regulatory Status

Frequently Asked Questions

How does TransRob differ from traditional AGV systems?

Traditional AGVs require fixed infrastructure—magnetic strips embedded in floors, guide wires, or QR code markers—limiting flexibility and requiring floor modifications. TransRob uses laser SLAM and visual navigation, requiring zero infrastructure changes. This enables faster deployment, easier route modifications, and lower installation costs.

Can TransRob operate alongside pneumatic tube systems?

Yes, and this is Swisslog’s recommended approach for full hospital logistics coverage. Pneumatic tubes handle small urgent items (samples, medications, documents) with second-level delivery speed. TransRob handles larger items, bulk supplies, and sensitive materials unsuitable for tube transport. Swisslog’s software platform can coordinate both systems for optimal routing.

What happens if TransRob encounters an obstacle?

The robot employs multiple detection layers: long-range laser scanning identifies obstacles early for smooth path adjustment; close-range sensors trigger slowdown; contact bumpers provide final safety stop. The robot will wait for obstacles to clear, find alternate routes, or request assistance if blocked for extended periods.