Episode 402: How Robots are Reshaping the Campus Experience

Chris shares all about Starship's autonomous delivery robots that are taking over campuses and creating more convenience for students and visitors.

Why higher ed institutions are the perfect fit
Although it seems like it might be easy for little robots to get lost in the big world of a higher ed campus, delivery robots have flourished at universities and colleges. Campuses are the perfect combination of a defined geographic location with a dense concentration of 18-22-year-olds, the age group most likely to intuitively understand the technology and be excited to use it. While colleges and universities are not the only place Starship’s robots have taken over, Neider reveals that it’s one of the places where they’ve seen the best results.

How do they work?
Starship Technologies deploy robots on campuses, driving them around the chosen campus to learn roads, shortcuts, and possible obstacles to build a map for efficient use. Once the map is created, the robots are ready for action. They are equipped with cameras that throw out vectors to help navigate areas and measure distance. The robots can also “call home” if it encounters an issue with the route. An operator can help the robot find an alternative route and be on its way again. The robots travel at around four and a half miles per hour, which allows for swift and safe deliveries down sidewalks filled with students. Starship robots cohabitate on campuses with students and faculty, which creates a seamless integration of technology.

A seamless student experience
As of right now, the main use of Starship robots is to deliver groceries and food items. Users download the Starship app and can see what products are offered and which areas are available for service. Once an order is placed, the robot is on its journey from merchant to customer.

Additionally, Starship wanted to make sure that students could really benefit from the robots. So they’ve integrated with the TouchNet OneCard Campus ID so that students can use their declining balance accounts within the Starship app. Students can use the balance stored on their campus ID just like other payment methods such as a debit card to have the robots deliver from campus restaurants and other places where campus ID payments are accepted. This customized user interface makes the robots more accessible to students, and keeps students spending money on campus, which maintains revenue streams for institutions.

The future rolls forward
Starship believes robots enhance the future of higher ed institutions. Not only do they allow for better student experiences, they also create excitement for prospective students. Potential students get excited to see the robots while on campus tours and to go to a school with such a high-tech environment. The possibilities of what these robots can roll themselves into are endless, from mobile bookstores and libraries to athletic integrations and more. While these robots have their limitations, primarily doors and stairs, they are quickly showing how smart technology can be in heightened campus experiences.

https://www.starship.xyz/

Special Guest: Chris Neider .