Downer has partnered with Deakin University’s Institute for Intelligent Systems Research and Innovation (ISRI) to develop the world’s first fully autonomous cleaning robots for passenger rail.

The team has developed two robots, one focused on the floors and one for surface cleaning, with both robots working in tandem with cleaning staff to make maintenance more efficient and effective as well as develop future-ready skills essential to Industry 4.0.

“The floor cleaning robot is designed to scrub, mop and vacuum all at once, cutting down cleaning time and boosting efficiency,” Jason Zhou, Project Manager, Rail and Transit Systems, explained.

“The surface cleaning robot focuses on the seats and passenger windows and with its steam technology, it provides hygiene and comfort for passengers.

The challenge

“The robots are equipped with advanced state-of-the-art sensors allowing them to detect vandalism, hazards, and rubbish, helping to keep the environment clean and safe.”

With the robots handling these tasks, cleaning staff are then able to complete other more complex duties.

“The deployment of these robots can transform cleaning operations by completing time-consuming and physically demanding tasks, greatly enhancing the productivity of cleaning teams,” Jason said.

“We see these revolutionary robots being adopted by the rail industry as it faces increasing demand for passenger rail cleanliness post-COVID as well as skilled labour shortages.”

Our solution

The robots have been intelligently designed, allowing them to adapt to the complexities of train interiors, and have been successfully trialled on Downer maintained passenger fleets.

Plans are in place for the commercialisation of these robots, making them available globally for rail and transit systems, setting a new standard in automated cleaning solutions for the industry.