BERLIN, Feb. 26 (Xinhua) -- Deutsche Bahn (DB) is testing an autonomous cleaning machine at Frankfurt am Main central station, the German state-owned railway company said on Friday.
The robot, built by the Berlin-based startup Spring Mobility, can sweep floor surfaces and neutralize viruses using ozonated water, according to DB. A natural disinfectant, ozonated water is known to be highly effective in combating coronaviruses and bacteria.
"Clean stations make a significant contribution to the well-being of all travelers and guests," said Leif Niklas Wulf, manager at Frankfurt Central Station, in a statement. "With the robot, we are testing an innovative way to support and relieve our cleaning staff."
The robot can clean and disinfect an area of around 12,000 square meters per day. Equipped with two lasers, ten ultrasound sensors, five cameras and GPS (Global Positioning System) antennas, the machine would "navigate autonomously through the underground area" of the train station, DB noted.
The test phase of the robot, which was named "Manni" in a vote by DB employees, is scheduled to last until April. DB would then evaluate the test operation and decide on further possible uses. Enditem