Aurrigo International plc has developed groundbreaking software that allows autonomous airport vehicles to operate safely during intense rainfall and snowfall. The UK-based smart airside solutions specialist has created a proprietary “rainfall algorithm” that enables its Auto-DollyTug vehicles to distinguish between raindrops and actual obstacles in precipitation up to 50mm per hour.
Solving the Rain Detection Challenge
Traditional autonomous vehicles using LiDAR technology struggle in heavy rain due to laser beam scattering and absorption by raindrops. Aurrigo’s solution combines enhanced sensor housing with intelligent software that filters precipitation while maintaining obstacle detection. “We’ve achieved the critical balance between removing rain interference and preserving detection capabilities,” explained Simon Brewerton, Aurrigo’s Chief Technology Officer. The system divides the vehicle’s surroundings into five spatial zones with variable filtering intensity based on proximity.
Rigorous Testing in Real-World Conditions
The technology has undergone extensive testing at major international airports, successfully operating in conditions far exceeding the initial 15mm/hour requirement. “Our vehicles demonstrated flawless performance in 50mm/hour rainfall while navigating complex airside environments,” said Sam Layton, Aurrigo’s Regional VP for Singapore. The system proved capable of distinguishing between precipitation and unexpected obstacles like boxes or personnel entering its path.
Unlocking 24/7 Airport Operations
This advancement enables autonomous ground support equipment (GSE) to operate during weather conditions that would halt manual operations, particularly in tropical climates like Singapore where lightning risks frequently disrupt airport activities. Unlike human workers, autonomous vehicles can safely function during CAT5 lightning warnings, potentially allowing continuous aircraft turnaround operations regardless of weather conditions.
Scaling Up for Global Deployment
Following a successful £5.25 million funding round, Aurrigo plans to deploy 22 Auto-DollyTugs in 2025. The all-electric vehicles promise to transform baggage handling through improved safety, efficiency and sustainability. The company is also preparing for commercial deployment of its Auto-Cargo system in partnership with UPS, marking a significant step toward fully autonomous airside operations worldwide.
This technological breakthrough positions Aurrigo at the forefront of intelligent ground support equipment innovation, solving one of the most persistent challenges in autonomous vehicle deployment at airports. The solution not only improves operational resilience but also supports the aviation industry’s broader transition toward electrification and automation.
Related Topics: