China’s latest policing advancement is a ball-shaped robot designed to track and identify suspects in high-pressure situations. The robot looks like a large rubber wheel and it’s equipped with many tools like tear gas, cameras, and flashlights. Can this robot make an impact?
Technological Leap in Policing
Police forces in China have begun testing an advanced robotic solution aimed at enhancing current law enforcement methods. This spherical robot, introduced in Wenzhou, showcases a combination of speed and technological features fitting for fast-paced criminal pursuits. It has been engineered to withstand tough conditions, and equipped with surveillance tools, self-stabilizing features, and tear gas deployment capabilities.
Weighing in at 125 kg and reaching a velocity of 35 km/h within mere seconds, this robot sets a precedent for mobility and resilience. Zhejiang University’s College of Control Science and Engineering spearheaded its development, marking a new era in robotic assistance in law enforcement.
China has unveiled a spheric police robot capable of pursuing criminals. The AI equipped robot can operate autonomously. It can even fall from heights.
The robot is capable of confronting perpetrators, shooting nets to immobilise them until police arrive. It attacks opponents… pic.twitter.com/kye24yZt2q
— HOW THINGS WORK (@HowThingsWork_) December 8, 2024
Purpose-Driven Design and Deployment
Alongside its speedy capabilities, the robot houses gear like net guns and sound wave devices that enhance functionality during patrolling and crisis intervention scenarios. These futuristic features align with the Chinese ministries’ ambition to infuse high-tech into policing, with suggestions for robot applications across patrolling and border securities.
“China’s just rolled out a spherical police robot that can chase down criminals, shoot nets, and even handle falls from heights! It moves at speeds up to 35 km/h — talk about a futuristic crime fighter,” said the Official Account of Chengdu City.
The operational range on both land and water illustrates the robot’s versatile application, set to complement existing tools like drones and robotic dogs. The government’s drive suggests a future where technology becomes integral in policing strategies and practices, seen not just in Wenzhou, but in Chengdu’s commercial areas as well.
China has revealed a spherical police robot designed to autonomously pursue and immobilize criminals by shooting nets and rolling at speeds of up to 35 km/h. pic.twitter.com/nkwRkEpCoA
— Massimo (@Rainmaker1973) December 8, 2024
Strategic Implementation
Wenzhou’s strategic deployment of this robot emphasizes enhancing public safety through innovative technological integration. The RT-G’s resilient features allow it to function in adverse conditions, supporting or even replacing human officers in high-risk situations.
“Because it can complete tasks in hostile environments, it can make up for the deficiencies of [Wenzhou police] drones and robot dogs,” said Wang You.
China’s pursuit of advanced robotic applications reflects a broader trend in law enforcement sectors globally, to create safety nets that extend beyond current limitations. With continuous enhancements, these robots promise to reshape traditional policing tactics, paving the way for more integrated and efficient law enforcement mechanisms.