Robots are rapidly joining the ranks of security personnel in the United States.

From New York to Hawaii in the US, people can spot security robots equipped with sensors patrolling around a number of residential communities and apartment buildings.

Proving their reliable security capabilities is difficult due to a lack of publicly available data. However, experts and manufacturers assert that their true strength lies in their collaboration with security officials using advanced technologies.

Knightscope, founded in 2013, deployed its first security robots in the U.S. in 2016. Photo: Knightscope

What can security robots do?

Security robots possess a range of tools that humans lack, making them unique partners for security systems: 360° high-definition photo and video capture; license plate recognition; mobile device signal detection; motion and physical object detection in front of the robot and collision avoidance; and many other security features.

Security robots can perform exceptionally well 24/7 in repetitive tasks, such as sitting at a station or following a fixed route.

The K5 security robot is the most well-known product of Knightscope, a California-based security and robotics technology company. According to Knightscope co-founder Stacy Stephens, these robots are not equipped with any lethal weapons.

Knightscope isn't the only manufacturer of security robots. The AI ​​and robotics company Cobalt AI produces a security robot that patrols hallways, office spaces, and indoor facilities. The device features an integrated screen, allowing for direct human-to-human interaction, as well as remote communication between security personnel and people.

Boston Dynamics, a leading robotics company, manufactures a line of robots called "Spot," which are used by police departments, manufacturers, and construction companies. Spot's primary objectives include detecting hazardous gases such as carbon monoxide and navigating in hazardous environments unsafe for humans.

Where can I find security robots?

Security robots are now patrolling some streets in Atlanta and San Diego, among other U.S. cities. Their presence is expanding into police departments, where they are being integrated into law enforcement operations.

In 2023, New York City Mayor Eric Adams and the New York City Police Department launched the Knightscope K5 to patrol Times Square and the city's subway system with an accompanying officer.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams speaks at a press conference at Times Square subway station about the Knightscope K5 automated security robot. Photo: NY Daily News

Earlier this year, Massachusetts state police deployed the Boston Dynamics Spot quadruple robot during a seven-hour standoff with a suspect in Boston. The robot was hit by a bullet while attempting to locate the gunman.

Three K5 robots were deployed in San Diego earlier this year. One robot is monitoring the area of ​​an apartment community in Claremont. There, it operates 24/7 to ensure the safety of residents and prevent car theft.

Earlier this month, an apartment building in Atlanta deployed a K5 security robot. It roams the sidewalks outside the building, monitoring and protecting residents.

Robots cannot yet replace humans, and there are risks involved.

John Hassard, a security expert at Robson Forensic, says the greatest strength of security robots is their ability to assist. For example, Knightscope's robots are designed to collaborate with existing security infrastructure and surveillance systems.

Knightscope provides security software that allows the robot to issue alerts when it detects anomalies. Depending on the situation and the sensors used to detect the incident, the alert will be sent to the security system or the department where the robot is deployed, requesting security to investigate the incident.

Robots can also be programmed for various functions based on the sensors they use. Robots in parking lots have the function of recognizing license plates, and can create a list of license plates to mark and alert security personnel.

Jay Stanley, a senior policy analyst at the American Civil Liberties Union, said the issue to be addressed is clarifying the actual capabilities and risks they pose. In fact, security robots patrolling the streets have caused problems in the past.

In 2016, a K5 knocked down and lightly injured a toddler in a shopping mall in California. The following year, another K5 crashed into a fountain in an office building in Washington, D.C.

Hoai Phuong (according to CNN)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/robot-dang-nhanh-chong-gia-nhap-hang-ngu-an-ninh-o-my-post309293.html