Recent developments in wireless communications technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and robotics have brought forth advances in security & surveillance solutions in the form of surveillance drones and autonomous security robots. These futuristic security & surveillance solutions are gradually being adopted by many companies in different industries across the globe. According to the reports, it is estimated that the global autonomous security robots’ market will witness significant growth during the years 2022 to 2027.

What are Security Robots?

In the simplest terms, security robots are any physical or software robots that can guard and provide security to assets. In general terms, there are two main types of security robots – virtual and physical. Physical robots are what you would traditionally imagine security robots to be. They are equipped with all sorts of surveillance equipment and can cover a large area on wheels.
Virtual security is quite another matter. Virtual robots are essentially AI algorithms that can identify and protect your data and devices against malware. Although not conventional robotics, virtual security robots can be invaluable to large corporations that run on collected data, as well as to everyday people who wish to protect themselves from fraud.
Of course, not all security robots fit neatly into either one of these categories, which is why there is a third, hybrid, category of security robots that include both physical and virtual security protocols.

Wide Scope for Usage

Although the increased popularity of surveillance cameras and access control systems have eased concerns on property crimes, monitoring commercial, residential, and public spaces continue to remain a costly and difficult affair.
For public and private organizations, robots and unmanned guard vehicles (UGV) offer a great solution that combines traditional surveillance technologies with a modern AI-based mobile security guard. Robots can be used to neutralize potential threats, collect forensic evidence, detect and deter people of malicious intent. They can work as gatekeepers and transmit real-time information to remote operators whenever necessary.
But this is not the only way security robots can help. Used with the right sensors, robots can detect and alert environmental changes, gas leaks, etc., making it a useful tool not just in high-security areas like critical infrastructure but even in homes.

  • Technological Innovation: Autonomous robots navigate themselves with the help of sensors, GPS, and complex algorithms. Some of the most common devices seen in them are:
  • Cameras: Most security robots have several cameras that can pan, tilt, zoom, and provide a 360-degree visual of their surroundings. These are often of high resolution and may use analytics for features like motion detection, license plate, and facial recognition. For night vision, robots are equipped with infrared or thermal cameras as well.
  • Communication systems: Robots may also use a two-way communication system that can let their operators talk to the people that are in front of the machine. There may also be other audio systems for sounding alarms, sirens, etc.
  • Integration with other systems: Depending on their usage, these robots can make use of technologies like access control systems and fire alarms. A robot manning the gate can verify ID credentials before letting someone into a place. Some robots are even integrated with drones that can take the operations to the sky when needed. The use of radar and laser scanners enables the machines to provide long-range surveillance.

Why are Autonomous Security Robots High in Demand?

Autonomous security robots are automated security & surveillance robots that combine and develop a multitude of different technologies to perform security & surveillance operations such as reporting, monitoring, investigating, and intruder detection. Today, security is a major concern for many businesses. Protecting assets, property, locations, and personnel is all in a day’s work for almost all security professionals working across various sectors and industries. 

  • Mobility: Autonomous security robots can move in a stable manner along with navigating complex environments and detecting & reporting anomalies in that environment. In-built navigation systems allow robots to correctly place themselves in a geographic location and a combination of sensors and cameras assist in navigating difficult or complex terrain.
  • Force Multiplier Capability: Autonomous security robots can be used as force multipliers for the existing security teams. These robots allow the user to get more tasks done using an equal amount of effort without any need for an increased number of human guards.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Automated security robots are a very good option for businesses and organizations that require acceleration to their security operations but cannot find the budget to support and hire a new human member of staff. These robots when used in combination with other benefits and IoT technologies, such as data predictive and sensors can even work out vastly cheaper than paying extra staff.
  • Longer Working: Unlike human security professionals, autonomous security robots do not suffer from stress or fatigue and can work for a longer period. This makes them ideal for supporting security roles or acting as a backup in cases of human error.

For Example:

Building Robotic Security Guards for Malls

Building bullet-shaped Robocop using a range of sensors and cameras can help us understand the surroundings and detect potential intruders. Each robot will be equipped with four high-definition cameras for 360-degree views, the fifth camera for license plate recognition, four microphones, navigation equipment and weather sensors that can detect changes in pressure and temperature. Anything suspicious can be immediately reported wirelessly to a human in a nearby command centre. The robots will be unarmed but can emit a loud, ear-piercing alarm. Hence, Knightscope is building new bots as a cost-effective alternative to human security guards.

Our Take

MA Services Group is aware of the technological advancements, affordability, and a wide scope of application are factors that could boost the adoption of security guard robots soon. There are a growing number of reasons why most organizations and businesses may soon begin to look firmly towards autonomous security robots as the flexible and cost-effective solution to their security & surveillance requirements. Latest innovations in automated security robots could accelerate the engine of development that could ultimately lead to the building of self-aware, fully automated machines.