Autonomous humanoid robots can transform public safety by improving emergency response and routine surveillance. These robots can navigate disaster zones quickly, find survivors, and deliver aid, thereby reducing risks to human responders. Patrol robots can detect anomalies, deter crime, and ensure crowd safety during large events. They enhance emergency response capabilities and provide continuous surveillance. Also, they can collect vital data for predictive analytics. Here, we share some of the useful insights on how these robots can improve public safety:
1. Emergency Response:
In the face of natural disasters such as fires, floods, and earthquakes, humanoid robots can take on search and rescue missions too perilous for humans. These robots can navigate through rubble and enter unstable structures, equipped with sensors like thermal imaging to locate people trapped in buildings or under debris. For instance, Atlas is a humanoid robot designed to navigate through complex and hazardous terrains. In earthquake scenarios, it can navigate rubble. Using its robust locomotion capabilities, Atlas can navigate over uneven and unstable debris to reach trapped individuals. It can autonomously open doors, climb stairs, and avoid obstacles, making it ideal for entering partially collapsed buildings.
2. Surveillance and Patrolling:
Humanoid robots can patrol public spaces such as malls, airports, and railway stations. Their presence can deter crime, and they can be outfitted with cameras and sensors to monitor for suspicious behaviour, reporting it to authorities. They can also identify unattended bags or items, alerting human officers to potential threats. For instance, Dubai Police introduced a humanoid robot known as Robocop in 2017, designed to assist with public safety and law enforcement. It can patrol areas such as malls, airports, and popular tourist spots, providing a visible security presence that deters crime. The robot features an "emotion detector" that can recognise a person's gestures and body language from nearly five feet away. Robocop can also detect if a person is happy, sad, or angry by studying facial expressions. If it sees you're unhappy, it will try to lift your spirits, just like a human friend. More importantly, in fighting crime, the robot uses the internet of things, artificial intelligence, and other smart technologies to spot offenders with facial recognition. Its navigation skills allow it to map out areas and travel independently. Robocop also assists the public by answering queries and providing directions. It also allows people to report crimes and pay traffic fines through an integrated touchscreen interface.
3. Crowd Control:
At public events, humanoid robots can manage crowds, directing the flow of people and providing necessary information. They can also monitor for emergencies and quickly notify human officers if intervention is needed. For example, at Expo 2020 in Dubai, humanoid robots played a significant role in managing the large crowds. Robots such as the Opti robot were deployed to greet visitors, provide directions, and offer information about events and pavilions. Also, there were robots that helped manage the flow of people, preventing overcrowding and ensuring smooth movement throughout the venue.
4. Medical Assistance:
Humanoid robots can offer medical support in public areas, such as checking temperatures and delivering medication. They can disinfect spaces to prevent the spread of infections. For example, Pepper has been used in various healthcare settings in Japan. Pepper robots in public health clinics and hospitals conduct basic health assessments, such as checking temperatures and asking health-related questions to screen for symptoms. These robots provide information and guidance to patients, helping them navigate the healthcare facilities and understand treatment protocols. Pepper robots assist in reminding people to wear masks, sanitise hands, and maintain social distancing, contributing to infection prevention efforts.
5. Traffic Management:
Humanoid robots can aid in traffic management, directing vehicles at congested spots and handling accidents. They can provide real-time updates and information to drivers, enhancing road safety. For instance, Dubai Police have integrated humanoid robots into its traffic management system. During traffic accidents, these robots can manage the scene by directing vehicles away from the site, ensuring safety, and preventing further congestion. The robots provide real-time traffic updates, alternative route suggestions, and information about road conditions to drivers via interactive screens and verbal communication. The Abu Dhabi Police have also deployed smart robots to show traffic safety videos and answer public queries.
By integrating humanoid robots into these key roles, governments can enhance public safety and improve community engagement.
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Explore the humanoid robot collection here. The robots can emulate human interaction and provide important information to users. They feature intelligent technology that provides services for consultations and business processing, answering questions accurately. This service robot improves work efficiency and reduces labour costs.
