Follow me, my carry-on

CowaRobot R1 [Photo/Courtesy of CowaRobot]

At peak travel times, dragging your weighty suitcase through a crowded airport is one of the most annoying things imaginable. But what if your carry-on could follow you around like an adoring puppy, keeping your hands free for your smartphone and a latte?

It's not a far-fetched idea relegated to science fiction any more – a group of robot enthusiasts have developed a handy autonomous smart suitcase, the CowaRobot R1, which is set to make your next trip that much easier.

Equipped with a variety of future-forward technologies, the R1 includes a system dubbed "Co-Eye". With the help of a depth sensor, sonar equipment and cliff-detection monitors, the R1 can find its own way and avoid obstacles. It can communicate via a wristband and will follow by your side at a top speed of 4.5mph. The wristband also works as a keyless remote to lock and unlock the case. Even if the R1 gets lost, a GPS chip inside enables the suitcase to navigate its way back to you.

The R1 measures 21.6 by 15 inches (meaning it fits in the overhead bins), weighs less than 5kg and has a 33-liter capacity. Its removable battery pack powers it for 12 hours – and can charge your other devices.

You can also control and monitor the R1 by a mobile app, available for iOS and Android, that gives you information about the R1's current location status and battery life – you can even activate an intelligent lock system. If you don't feel like using the smart mode, no worries; you can just pull out the handle and switch the case to manual mode.

The R1 ushers in a new wave of baggage innovation. While owners should rightfully be gleeful, airport staff may have a new job on their hands – keeping "suitcase traffic" in order.

CowaRobot R1 [Photo/Courtesy of CowaRobot]