The Sheraton Los Angeles San Gabriel Hotel is first in the U.S. hotel industry to use eight TUG robots. The robots were developed by Aethon, a provider of autonomous mobile robots.
Known for its service in healthcare, Aethon’s robots have been introduced at Sheraton’s newest Los Angeles property, located in San Gabriel.
Visitors to the 288-room stylish hotel are greeted by Aethon’s four-foot high TUG robots, whether looking for directions to elevators or receiving an in-room delivery.
“Having eight robots is a first for the U.S. hotel industry, and we know our TUG robots will be an approachable, cutting-edge addition to the world-class service guests expect at Sheraton properties,” said Wanda Chan General Manager.
“Robots are the next wave of hospitality technology and we believe our overnight guests and those in the local San Gabriel community will find the robots to be intriguing and fun.”
The TUG robots have a proven track record of success in hospitals globally by making more than 50,000 deliveries each week. The robots will navigate through the hotel using an internal built-in map.
TUG robots also have sensors that allow them to safely move around people and obstacles, and they use the hotel’s WiFi system to communicate with elevators and automatic doors.
The “multi-use” robots use the service elevators to deliver in-room items to guests such as luggage, meals, fresh linens and other guest items.
The robots are programmed to call the elevator, open service doors and ring guestroom phones when they arrive at the door. When finished with tasks, the robots navigate back to a charging dock before heading out again.
“The robots work alongside our employees – not replace them. Their purpose is to make certain tasks more efficient, allowing staff to focus on the needs of guests and offering more personal touches,” said Chan.
