The Indoor Lab, a provider of lidar and artificial intelligence (AI) solutions, and Tampa International Airport (TPA) are partnering to create the first-of-its-kind lidar laboratory, showcasing a comprehensive portfolio of privacy-compliant products throughout the airport.
Lidar, which stands for "light detection and ranging," has been utilized for years to measure the Earth's topographical surface and, more recently, for autonomous vehicles.
The Indoor Lab is at the forefront of adapting this privacy-compliant technology for airport use. With lidar, airports can deploy a singular technology across both indoor and outdoor areas during both day and night.
“The integration of the technology will significantly benefit passengers by enhancing operations, optimizing staffing, maintaining cleanliness, reducing concession lines, minimizing TSA wait times, speeding up plane turn times, and bolstering safety on the tarmac and airfield,” said Patrick Blattner, CEO of The Indoor Lab.
The partnership between the airport and The Indoor Lab is designed to provide a "best of" experience, utilizing one technology, one platform and one complete lidar AI solution.
“From the moment a vehicle enters the airport until an airplane takes off,” Blattner said, “this approach will revolutionize the way airports operate and evolve in the future, as lidar technology continues to become more affordable, longer-range, and solid-state.”
Over the past year, The Indoor Lab and Tampa International Airport have deployed select products and services in various locations within the airport. Now, Blattner said the partners will be working to further develop solutions that drive innovation through operational AI.
"This partnership with Tampa International Airport is a testament to our commitment to revolutionizing the airport experience by leveraging cutting-edge lidar technology and AI solutions. Our collaboration will not only improve efficiency and security but also pave the way for airports of the future," he said.
Marcus Session, vice president of IT at of Tampa International Airport and chair of the Airports Council International-North America Business Information Technology Committee, added, "We are thrilled to embark on this journey with The Indoor Lab, setting a new standard for airports worldwide. Our goal is to provide an unparalleled experience for passengers and staff, and this partnership will play a crucial role in achieving that."
As the project progresses, The Indoor Lab and Tampa International Airport plan to share their findings and innovations with the aviation industry, helping to shape the future of airport operations and experiences.
