Robotcop III Set to Fight Crime

Abstract

[evdate 2004-03-02]

02/03/2004

Robotcop III Set to Fight Crime

A new Robotcop joined the Police Force today to raise awareness of crime prevention among Hong Kong's school children. The first locally made animated robot of its kind in Hong Kong, the Robotcop was jointly developed by the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) and the Hong Kong Police (HKP).

This third generation Robotcop was designed and produced by HKUST's Applied Technology Center and the Crime Prevention Bureau of the HKP.

In contrast to its US-made predecessors, Robotcop III possesses major technical enhancements and a longer lifespan. He also employs advanced computer, electronics, mechanics and digital imaging technologies.

Director of Crime and Security Sidney Chau presents a souvenir to Vice-President Roland Chin

A handover ceremony was held on the HKUST campus today, officiated by Prof Roland Chin, Vice-President for Research and Development of HKUST and Mr Sidney Chau Foo-cheong, Director of Crime and Security.

During visits to kindergartens, schools, exhibitions and fairs, Robotcop III will offer crime awareness tips and talk face-to-face with children aged 4-11, teaching them about crime prevention. Concepts he will share include civic responsibility, personal safety, and the ills of shoplifting and triad or gang recruitment.

RobotcopIII patrols on campus

Robotcop III is capable of moving his arms, tilting his head, walking, dancing, moving in any direction and detecting obstacles. With a camera and LCD monitor on board, he can capture images on site and display promotional videos. With up to six hours of battery power, he is also capable of interacting with an audience by answering questions posed in Cantonese and English.

The First and Second Generation Robotcops were introduced in 1988 and 1995, respectively. To date, more than 800,000 children have met with Robotcop III's older brothers.

For media enquiries: Adrian Cheung Tel: 2358-6305 email: acheung@ust.hk