The JEEVES Hospitality Robot Runs on igus E-Chains

JEEVES is an autonomous robot from Robotise Technologies that autonomously navigates its environment to replace up to 300 hotel minibars. The robots are now strung together with E2.10 series of e-chain plastic cable carriers from igus.

Constructed from high-performance plastics, the igus cable carriers support the robot's performance, guiding the system's energy and data cables. The E2.10 units are built resist wear and abrasion and are suitable for a wide temperature range.

The cable carriers are installed above the guide rails of the drawers where they also save space. Together these qualities are designed to improve the robot's efficiency and durability, minimize maintenance needs and save costs.

When JEEVES was first designed, the cables – located inside the robot's extendable compartments – were at risk for excessive bending, breakage, and freezing to the refrigerator's cooling plate. A damaged JEEVES could cause guest dissatisfaction, weakening the robot's role in hospitality.

Robotise recognized the robot’s reliability was critical to the machine’s success. "A faulty robot waiter would immediately lead to resentment of the guests," explained Clemens Beckmann, head of engineering at Robotise Technologies. "That's why we attached great importance to making JEEVES as reliable as possible."

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Designed for highly dynamic applications, igus E2.10 cable carriers were a match for JEEVES. They enable the robot to perform reliably.

JEEVES, the butler robot

JEEVES stands four feet tall and weighs 220 pounds. The robot navigates via a laser system, 3D camera, and sensors to autonomously use the elevators and travel to hotel rooms. Guests can request snacks or beverages by making a phone call or sending an app message.

Upon arrival, JEEVES notifies the guest via a phone call or app alert. Once the robot arrives at the door, guests use its large touch display to select and pay for a product. JEEVES then dispenses the chosen item from one of its four drawers. By deploying JEEVES, hotels are able to eliminate the time-consuming need to refill and clean hundreds of minibars. They also eliminate the energy consumption and costs associated with the minibars' refrigeration. This innovation has applications beyond hotels, from trade shows, canteens, and offices top airports, museums, and restaurants.