A smart wheelchair guided by vision-based technology, following a member of Changi airport staff, is just one future scenario that is ready now.
In future, passengers would not have to wheel themselves around the terminals or rely on staff for aid. Currently, the so-called Smart Wheelchair System is on trial at the airport whilst other technologies being considered include Roboto, a prototype robotic chef that could prepare laksa for passengers at the SATS Premier Lounges.
These concepts are amongst 13 technological exhibits unveiled this week at an exhibition held at Changi airport's Terminal 3. At the event SATS launched the TechnIC@SATS initiative, its rebranded technology innovation centre.
The centre is supported and co-funded by the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore and the Economic Development Board; in all, the three organisations have committed S$110m to the centre.