An international consortium, spearheaded by key players from the Brittany region of France, is paving the way for cutting-edge advancements in airport technology. Alstef Group, a specialist in automated turnkey solutions for the global airport, intralogistics, and parcel markets, has teamed up with Secure-IC, experts in cybersecurity solutions for embedded systems. The collaboration – known as the Alpha Project – also involves two prestigious French engineering schools, ECAM and IMT Atlantique.
The two-year venture focuses on revolutionising airport baggage transport through the implementation of Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) fleets to replace or enhance traditional conveyor-based technology.
BAGXONE is Alstef Group's innovative AGV designed for the automated transport of hold baggage at airports. With a pilot BAGXONE project successfully commissioned at Belgrade Airport in late 2023, Alstef Group aims to elevate its solution by incorporating the latest technological advancements into its AGVs.
The primary research areas encompass system performance, operability, energy efficiency, safety, and cybersecurity.
Endorsed by Images et Réseaux, the leading digital innovation competitiveness cluster in the French regions of Pays de la Loire and Brittany, the project also receives support from region of Brittany.
The Alpha Project will play a pivotal role in optimising the AGV system's performance, emphasising the expertise in Artificial Intelligence and robot fleet management contributed by IMT Atlantique and ECAM. Research initiatives involve the creation of algorithms to streamline AGV routes and missions, enhance inter-vehicle communication, and implement intrusion detection measures to fortify system security. Collaborative efforts with Secure-IC will integrate cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions into BAGXONE, ensuring the highest level of protection.
Charles Poisson, AGV software design manager at Alstef Group, is optimistic about the Alpha Project's potential for global economic development. Acknowledging the Brittany region's support, Poisson highlighted the collaboration's role in showcasing the technological excellence of the region.
