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K5 Autonomous Data Machine The Future Of Mall Security

Knightscope's new K5 Autonomous Data Machine is the latest effort in robotic security guards.


( K5 Autonomous Data Machine )

The minimum wage in the United States is $7.25, and $8 in California. Coming in substantially under those costs, Knightscope’s robot watchman service raises questions about whether artificial intelligence and robotics technologies are beginning to assault both the top and the bottom of the work force as well.

The robot, which can be seen in a promotional video, is still very much a work in progress. The system will have a video camera, thermal imaging sensors, a laser range finder, radar, air quality sensors and a microphone. It will also have a limited amount of autonomy, such as the ability to follow a preplanned route. It will not, at least for now, include advanced features like facial recognition, which is still being perfected.

Compare to the security guard robot from the 1985 film Runaway by Michael Crichton.


(Security guard robot from Runaway)

As far as I know, Philip K. Dick was the first sf writer to imagine security guard robots. See this reference from his 1955 short story The Hood Maker:

"Halt!" A robot guard appeared, streaking toward them across the field. "Identify yourselves!"

Franklin showed his clip. "I'm Director level. We're here to see the Senator. I'm an old friend."

Automatic relays clicked as the robot studied the identification clip.
(Read more about guard robot)

Via New York Times.

Scroll down for more stories in the same category. (Story submitted 12/6/2013)

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