Challenge

In hospitals, the transport of endoscopes constitutes a structural bottleneck. Endoscopes require a constant logistical cycle between the outpatient clinic and the Central Endoscope Disinfection Room (CSD), which is time-consuming and physically demanding for staff, damages expensive endoscopes, and regularly leads to delays in the treatment process.

Solution

Objectives

The project is developing the CSD Shuttle: an Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR) for the safe, timely, and cost-efficient transport of endoscopes. The CSD Shuttle consists of:

• A self-propelled platform (Dalco Drive) with a transport body that transports endoscopes protected against vibrations, impacts, and contamination
• A drop-off box for temporary storage of endoscopes at the department and the CSD
• Context-aware navigation software for autonomous navigation through the hospital
• Integration with existing hospital systems (track-and-trace, ERP) in accordance with ESGE/ESGENA Guidelines and ISO 15883

Use Case: Reinier de Graaf Gasthuis

At the Reinier de Graaf Gasthuis, one full-time employee transports endoscopes daily between the Urology, ENT, and Gastroenterology departments (1st floor) and the CSD (4th floor). The CSD processes up to 100 endoscopes per day, where the 60-minute cleaning limit requires a tight and continuous logistical flow. HIT Contribution

Contribution HIT

HIT is responsible for the development of the context-aware navigation software, with three core components:

• Task sequencing — intelligent planning of transport assignments based on priority and hospital context
• Elevator navigation — autonomous operation of elevators for transport between floors
• Social navigation — safe and respectful movement within the hospital environment, taking into account patients, visitors, and staff