Mantis develops AI-driven computer vision systems for ski resorts, enabling autonomous operation of chairlifts and gondolas. Their software uses cameras to detect dangerous boarding and offloading situations, automatically stopping the ropeway when necessary. This solution enhances safety and reduces operational costs by mitigating staffing shortages.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Ski resorts face challenges in ensuring passenger safety at chairlift stations, particularly during the offloading process, where accidents can occur due to falls or improper dismounts. Staffing shortages and the monotonous nature of monitoring these areas can further compromise safety and operational efficiency.
Solution
Mantis Ropeway Technologies offers AI-powered computer vision systems designed to automate the monitoring and operation of chairlifts and gondolas. The system uses multiple cameras to provide comprehensive coverage of the exit area, detecting critical situations such as falls or obstructions. The software processes live video streams in real-time, identifying potential risks and automatically triggering emergency stops when necessary. This technology enhances safety by providing constant alertness and faster reaction times compared to human operators. Mantis offers two integration options: Mantis Assistance, which alerts human operators to potential issues, and Mantis Autonomy, which fully automates the stopping and starting of the chairlift.
Target Audience
The primary customers are ski resorts seeking to improve safety, reduce operating costs, and mitigate staffing shortages associated with chairlift operation.
Features
- Multi-camera system providing comprehensive coverage of chairlift exit areas, eliminating blind spots
- AI-driven software trained on millions of passenger interactions to accurately identify dangerous situations
- Real-time video processing with risk assessment performed 15 times per second
- Automatic emergency stop functionality integrated with the ropeway control system
- Weather-resistant cameras certified with IP66 and IK10 ratings, ensuring reliable operation in harsh conditions
- Integration with Mantis Viewer™ visualization panel at the lower terminal for safe restart by the operator (Mantis Autonomy)
- Mantis Assistance™ option provides visual and acoustic alerts to human operators for improved monitoring