After a long journey spent traveling, the last thing many of us want to do is lug around our heavy suitcases until we arrive at our destination. Over the last few years, innovations have centered around two primary focuses: finding a way to let travelers track the location of their luggage and providing a backup battery for modern devices people tend to carry.
But Israel-based company NUA Robotics is taking it a step further by introducing a suitcase that follows you around and allows you to be completely hands-free. The smart device is equipped with a camera sensor inside and Bluetooth that pairs with a smartphone app, which tells the suitcase where the owner is and lets it follow right along.
Currently, the carry-on suitcase is in its initial prototype stage and is designed with a proximity feature that allows it to move at the pace the user chooses while also avoiding any obstacles along the way. At the moment, it is limited to a speed of 5km/h, but is in the works to be designed to move much faster.
Among its other features include a built-in rechargeable battery that lasts between 60 and 90 minutes per change. At a later stage the battery will be made removable, but currently, is charged by plugging into an outlet. The smart suitcase also comes equipped with a USB input that can be used to charge other devices such as your smartphone or tablet. It has an anti-theft alarm that sends real-time data to your smartphone, including its weight and location.
The current design is made with ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) resources that are known for their tough, impact resistant properties, and a later model will be made with waterproof materials. Weighing approximately 1kg more than a typical cabin bag, the NUA luggage looks similar to a sturdy, mini icebox.
Its retail price has yet to be determined, but the makers aim to have a finalized version available by Christmas 2016.
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