Sharp unveils rugged robotic guarding system at ASIS

ORLANDO - Cliff Quiroga, vice president and general manager of Sharp Robotics Business Development (SRBD), unveiled the Sharp INTELLOS Automated Unmanned Ground Vehicle (A-UGV) at ASIS on Monday.

The unit is a cost-effective, multi-terrain, mobile sensor platform that can capture video, audio and environmental data, while providing a visible deterrent. The data it provides can enhance outdoor surveillance, security, safety and maintenance inspections, which will help organizations meet the challenges of an ever-changing security landscape by augmenting a skilled guard force.

“We met with customers and found out if there is a demand in this industry that is not being fully served by guarding professionals,” Quiroga said.

Unlike existing remote control robots that require a trained, human operator, an A-UGV is essentially a self-directed robot, which navigates on the ground without a human driver.

After its route is programmed, it is capable of operating outdoors around a facility and can be equipped to extend human capabilities, such as sight, using an array of cameras, which include optional thermal imaging. Though it can provide virtual, autonomous operation for up to three touring shifts daily, the unit can also be over-ridden by the operator in a command center and used as a semi-autonomous vehicle when more direct control is required.

The vehicle is designed to carry a payload of standard cameras, and available optional gas and chemical sensors that can be used to observe changing situations from within the safety of a Security Command Center.

It is equipped with a siren, flashing lights and voice announcements, including two-way communications. It is powered by lithium ION batteries, and the vehicle’s telescopic boom stretches to average human height, which enables it to see into and over objects, such as fences.

“When it comes to the shifting demands of private and public sector security, the industry integrators and their customers will now have a safe, reliable and cost-effective robotic tool working to safeguard people, assets and infrastructure,” said Doug Albregts, President, CEO and Chairman of Sharp Electronics.

The A-UGV is targeted at large, expansive outdoor properties such as: 

• Distribution and storage
• Manufacturing
• Power and utility
• Pharmaceutical
• Data centers
• Petro-chemical and mining
• Airports and rail yards
• Government facilities

“Over the coming months, we will continue to run customer trials and share case study findings,” Quiroga said. “Channel partners and security integrators are taking orders now. Units are targeted for shipment by the beginning of 2017.”

To find out more, visit SharpINTELLOS.com. To learn about UGVs for security, visit Robolliance.com.