China unveils first security robot

China’s first robot security guard made its debut, an electrical anti-riot device that can be activated through remote control in case of a threat.

The 1.49-metre-tall, 78-kg “AnBot” unveiled at the ongoing China Chongqing Hi-Tech Fair has a maximum speed of 18 km per hour. It can patrol at a speed of 1 km per hour and has battery capacity of 8 hours.

The security robot is capable of autonomous patrol, intelligent monitoring, emergency calls, auto recharging and has optional modules for environmental monitoring, biochemical detection and clearing explosives, state-run Xin-hua news agency reported.

An electrical anti-riot device can be activated through remote control if a threat is detected.

Shouting for help in the patrol area or pushing the robot’s emergency button will alert the police immediately.

Breakthroughs in low-cost autonomous navigation and positioning as well as intelligent video surveillance have contributed to the development of the robot, said Xiao Xiangjiang, director of the Institute of Electromechanical Engine-ering and Automation of the National University of Defence Technology.

Other highlights of the robot include its ability to react during emergencies, according to Xiao.

Wei Quansheng, an officer from Beijing Municipal Public Security Bureau, said the robot guard can be used in many public places such as airports, stations and subways to help with police officers’ anti-riot missions.

The robot is jointly developed by the National University of Defence Technology and a robotics company in central China’s Hunan Province.

The university began researching robotics theory and technology in the 1980s.

The school is hoping to continue to build up China’s intelligent security service robots to promote development of the robot industry and upgrades to the country’s security industry, Xia said.