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In order to reduce the workload and infection risk of frontline officers, the Innovation and Solution Lab (ISLAB), in collaboration with the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD), piloted the application of quadruped robotics to provide support in the community isolation facility (CIF) in Fanling during mid-March and late-April. The robot was used to deliver daily necessities to occupants in the CIF.
The quadruped robots could transport materials from the warehouse in the staff area to the isolation rooms in the patient area according to a pre-established route. The occupants could then obtain supplies outside their rooms, hence reducing the frequency of officers entering the quarantined area to reduce their risk of contracting the virus. The robot regularly disinfected itself after completing the delivery work to ensure hygiene. A major challenge was that there were many obstacles such as staff and materials in the CIF which might get into the way of the robot. ISLAB collaborated with EMSD to fine-tune the algorithm and conducted field tests until the robot was finally able to be put into real application.
Senior Superintendent of ISLAB Dr Hui Chun-wai said, “This is the first time that a quadruped robot is used for delivery in a CIF according to prescribed routing. It aims to reduce the risk of cross-infection in the facility and improve the efficiency of the operation.” ISLAB will continue to work with different departments to apply innovative technologies in police work to improve service quality. A relevant video of the quadruped robot has already been uploaded to P-TV.
