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6 December 2024

Advanced AI for Surveillance Robots

At LAB42, their addressing tomorrow’s challenges today. One pressing question is: how can we tackle the growing staff shortage in security?

This collaboration, known as the OpenBots consortium, focuses on creating intelligent systems that assist security personnel in their daily tasks. By integrating advanced generative AI, similar to the technology behind ChatGPT, aiming to enable robots to produce human-like responses and handle complex situations. The primary challenge lies in adapting this sophisticated technology for real-world, unpredictable environments.

 

Surveillance in Action

"Robots can already move autonomously, but they need to learn how to assess situations and respond appropriately," explains Dr. Joris Sijs, project leader from TU Delft. The focus is on scenarios such as patrolling along fences, where robots must identify objects and individuals and determine the necessary course of action.

 

Advantages of Robotic Assistance

Robots offer several advantages in the security sector:

- 24/7 Operation: Unlike human staff, robots can work tirelessly around the clock.
- Enhanced Observation: They can detect minute details that may escape human attention.
- Risk Mitigation: Robots can assess and act in hazardous situations, safeguarding human lives.
- Addressing Labor Shortages: They provide a viable solution to the rising gap in security staffing.

However, the goal isn’t to replace human security professionals but to support them. “We envision a future where humans and robots collaborate seamlessly,” shares a Royal Netherlands Marechaussee spokesperson. "Robots can handle routine tasks, freeing human security guards to focus on complex challenges requiring human insight."

 

Human-Robot Collaboration at the Core

The OpenBots project emphasizes the synergy between human expertise and robotic efficiency. Each partner contributes specialized expertise to this initiative. At LAB42, our Video & Image Sense Lab, led by Cees Snoek, is at the forefront of developing AI algorithms that enhance robot perception and generative machine learning capabilities.

By leveraging these innovations, we aim to create a future where intelligent surveillance robots and human security teams work hand in hand, ensuring safety and efficiency in even the most challenging environments.