Objectives

The FARO project stems from the growing need to maintain high standards of environmental and hygiene quality in shared, high-traffic spaces, while reducing operational costs, energy consumption, and overall environmental impact.

More specifically, FARO aims to:

• develop autonomous mobile robots capable of operating safely in dynamic environments with people, thanks to advanced intelligent navigation and obstacle avoidance systems;
• integrate IoT sensors for continuous monitoring of critical environmental parameters (CO₂, VOCs, fine particulate matter, humidity);
• implement Artificial Intelligence algorithms based on supervised Machine Learning techniques for predictive analysis of key parameters and the early detection of environmental degradation;
• enable smart and adaptive cleaning, adjusting frequency and intensity according to actual environmental conditions;
• optimize the use of energy resources and consumables, supporting sustainability goals and reducing waste.

Proposed solutions

The solutions developed within FARO consist of autonomous, modular robotic platforms integrating advanced hardware components, intelligent software, and real-time data processing systems. These platforms are designed to operate in complex environments and to be deployed in different configurations depending on the setting, while maintaining a shared foundation built on mobile robotics, IoT sensor technology, Edge Computing, and predictive Artificial Intelligence.

FARO for high-traffic public environments (railway stations, airports, shopping centres)

In dynamic, crowded public spaces, FARO operates as a collaborative mobile robot dedicated to monitoring and intelligent management of shared areas, featuring advanced autonomous navigation and obstacle avoidance capabilities. The system relies on sensor fusion techniques, combining data from LiDAR, cameras, and ultrasonic sensors to move safely through complex environments that continuously change.

An onboard network of IoT sensors continuously detects critical parameters and enables the timely identification of environmental degradation or abnormal conditions. Data is processed in real time through an Edge Computing platform, ensuring immediate responsiveness and rapid corrective actions, even in high-flow areas with demanding operational requirements.

FARO for healthcare settings (hospitals and clinical environments)

In healthcare contexts, FARO is tailored to meet specific requirements related to safety, hygiene, and service continuity, with a strong focus on indoor air quality and the monitoring of potentially critical environmental conditions. In these settings, the platform supports a more prevention-oriented approach, combining advanced sensor systems with functionality designed to assist the management of clinical spaces.

In this configuration as well, data processing takes place directly onboard through Edge Computing, while supervised Machine Learning algorithms analyse the collected data, detect anomalies, and support predictive management of hygiene-related and environmental criticalities. The goal is to deliver healthier, better-controlled environments and help maintain high standards in contexts where environmental quality plays a primary role.

Shared architecture and sustainable design

From a manufacturing perspective, FARO is developed according to additive manufacturing principles: the external shell is produced through 3D printing, while specific internal components use an innovative patented resin for thermal dissipation, offering high performance and full recyclability. This design approach ensures flexibility, sustainable production, and reduced waste, while also enabling scalability and customisation based on different operational scenarios.

In practical use, FARO is designed to integrate smoothly into existing management processes and to collect usage data that can support calibration and progressive optimisation of the platform’s functionalities, according to the specific characteristics of the monitored environment.

Expected impact

The FARO project is designed to generate a concrete and measurable impact on multiple levels.

From an environmental perspective, the robotic solutions help improve indoor air quality and reduce overall energy consumption and the use of chemical cleaning agents, thanks to an intelligent and adaptive management of cleaning and filtration activities. Automatically optimizing the frequency and intensity of interventions makes it possible to act only when needed, reducing waste and operational overload.

At an organizational and technological level, FARO introduces a new paradigm of automated Facility Management, based on data, prediction, and operational autonomy, supporting organizations and facility operators in the day-to-day management of complex, high-traffic environments.

Finally, from an economic and strategic standpoint, the project enables MTM S.r.l. to significantly expand its portfolio of innovative products, offering solutions that are market-ready and highly scalable, in line with current and future needs of major operators managing large public spaces.

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