Smart Campus in Action: Shanghai Maritime University Transforms Cleaning with Gausium Robots

At Shanghai Maritime University (SMU), the pursuit of innovation isn’t limited to the lecture halls. This semester, the university welcomed four unique “new students” that are quietly revolutionizing the way the campus operates.

In a strategic move to build a smarter, more efficient learning environment, SMU has deployed a fleet of Gausium autonomous cleaning robots—specifically, two Scrubber 50 units and two Phantas units. These robots are not just cleaning floors; they are an integral part of the university’s vision where technology seamlessly supports daily life.

The Challenge: Maintaining a Bustling Campus

Like any major university, SMU faces the challenge of maintaining high hygiene standards across high-traffic areas without disrupting the flow of students and faculty. Between the busy Navigation Science Building and the active student dormitories, the university needed a solution that was consistent, unobtrusive, and capable of operating autonomously day and night.

The Solution: A Dual-Robot Ecosystem

Scrubber 50 cleaning at the Navigation Science Building, SMU

To address these diverse needs, SMU utilized two of Gausium’s flagship models, each assigned to the environment best suited for its capabilities.

1. Scrubber 50: The Multi-Story Workhorse

Stationed in the Navigation Science Building, the Scrubber 50 has become a staple of the daily rhythm. Its ability to communicate with building infrastructure allows it to perform complex tasks that previously required human intervention.

• Elevator Integration: The Scrubber 50 autonomously navigates across floors, taking elevators on its own to ensure the entire building is covered.
• High-Frequency Cleaning: It completes up to three full cleaning cycles per day, working with focus and precision through hallways and public corridors.
• Total Autonomy: When its battery runs low or the job is done, it returns to its dock automatically—requiring no reminders and no supervision.

2. Phantas: The Agile Caretaker

Phantas cleaning the ground floor at the student dormitory, SMU

Over in the dormitories, the compact and agile Phantas serves as a reliable caretaker for student living spaces.

• Elevator Integration: The Phantas autonomously navigates across floors, taking elevators on its own to ensure the entire building is covered.
• Smart Scheduling: Phantas is programmed to operate during quiet hours, ensuring shared spaces are kept fresh and comfortable without disturbing the students’ morning rush.
• Detail-Oriented: Its smaller form factor allows it to navigate tighter spaces, ensuring every corner of the living quarters is cared for.

The Result: A Smarter, Cleaner Campus

The true impact of the Gausium fleet is felt when the sun goes down. As night falls and classrooms empty, both the Scrubber 50 and Phantas return to the corridors. Gliding silently through the shadows, they restore order after a long day of learning, ensuring the campus is pristine for the next morning.

By automating these essential tasks, Shanghai Maritime University has successfully bridged the gap between utility and innovation.

Conclusion

These robots are more than just cleaning machines; they are active participants in campus life. They represent a successful case of digital transformation in facility management, proving that when technology supports people, innovation becomes a seamless part of everyday life.

Key Highlights

• End User: Shanghai Maritime University
• Robot Deployed: 2x Scrubber 50, 2x Phantas
• Operational Efficiency:  3 autonomous cleaning cycles per day
• Impact: 24/7 hygiene maintenance with zero human supervision required for charging or floor transition.