On November 26, 2022, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) conducted the Automated Delivery Robot Demonstration Run Using the “Walking Space Network Data."

This project aims to verify whether automated delivery robots are able to deliver packages using the "walking space network data," which the MLIT has developed to realize a universal society.

Behind this is the recent surge in delivery needs by automated delivery robots in response to labor-cost saving and manpower-saving in the logistics industry, more so from the viewpoint of preventing infectious diseases.

The MLIT has been converting information into open data as "walking space network data," including information on barriers to mobility, such as steps and inclines in walking spaces, and information on barrier-free features, such as the locations of wheelchair-accessible elevators and barrier-free toilets. In addition, the Ministry has been promoting the development of an environment where this data can be utilized in various fields, as well as develop the idea to utilize this information for delivery robots.

The area where the system will run is located in the Akabane district of Kita Ward, Tokyo, between Akabane Station and Nouvelle Akabanedai Danchi, and the Toyo University Akabanedai Campus.

See below for more information:
https://www.mlit.go.jp/report/press/sogo23_hh_000145.html