As interest in Knightscope’s Autonomous Security Robots (ASRs) continues to increase, there are some common questions that almost every new potential client asks. We’re even beginning to hear them in our sleep now. And that’s not a bad thing!
People are genuinely seeking out solutions that will help improve their current security programs and potentially save significant money. So, we thought it would be good to compile a list of the top 25 questions we hear and provide brief answers. Of course, brief answers may not be enough for you, so we’ll also tell you how to reach us directly to dive deep into any of these or other questions they may have sparked for you.
1. Do the robots require software to be installed at the client site?
No. The Knightscope Security Operations Center (KSOC), a browser-based user interface, does not require software to be installed.
2. How does the robot know where to patrol?
Knightscope works closely with its clients to develop detailed patrol routes that best address the specific needs of that particular site. The Knightscope team then programs the routes into the KSOC for their security team to control.
3. Can the patrol routes be scheduled?
Yes. We provide an easy to use tool in the KSOC that allows our clients to set the exact routes each robot patrols by day and hour. These schedule may be changed at any time, as often as needed within seconds.
4. Does it require someone to plug it in to recharge the batteries?
Absolutely not. The robots are fully autonomous, will monitor their own energy levels and return to their charging station without human intervention.
5. How long can it patrol for on one battery charge?
An average patrol cycle lasts between 2 to 2.5 hours, but there is plenty of reserve left in the tank in the event of a power outage. The theme of our battery management strategy is to maximize the run time and minimize the charge time.
6. How long does it take to recharge the batteries?
Just 15 to 20 minutes and during that time the robot is fully functional… minus the mobility, of course.
7. How many cameras does it have?
Our robots have four cameras, providing 360-degrees of high-definition, eye-level recorded video.
8. Can you see the live video from the robot?
Yes. The KSOC provides access to both live and recorded video for all four cameras simultaneously.
9. Can I access the video remotely on my smart phone or tablet?
Yes!
10. Does someone need to be logged into KSOC, watching the video and monitoring the robot at all times?
No. The artificial intelligence is designed to notify humans via the KSOC. Email, text alerts or phone calls may also be utilized when needed if someone is not continuously logged into the KSOC or to allow operators to monitor other systems until an alert is received.
11. Do the robots talk?
Yes. They can be programmed to broadcast nearly any message related to security, safety, facilities, visitor experience and much more, in English and/or Spanish, in a male or female voice.
12. Can you talk to a person, such as a visitor or trespasser, remotely through the robot?
Yes. The microphones, speaker and call button on the robot allow for an intercom call to be initiated right from the robot to the KSOC, or from the KSOC to the robot. The robot essentially acts like a cell phone for those in distress or need of assistance.
13. Do you sell or rent them?
Neither, actually. It’s a subscription service, similar to your cable or satellite service. We provide the equipment and services for a minimum of 12 months.
14. Who provides the maintenance and service?
Knightscope provides all maintenance and service nationwide.
15. When a service technician is needed, how long does it typically take?
Knightscope provides 24/7/365 US-based support through the KSOC. You have the ability to chat directly with a specialist anytime you need help and most service is addressable remotely over the air. And if we must dispatch someone to physically service a robot, this typically happens within 48 hours on normal business days.
16. What do the robots use for communication?
Cellular service (4G LTE) is used and is included in our subscription. The robots can also use a client’s WIFI provided there is ‘industrial strength’ blanket coverage in all patrol areas.
17. How long does it store the video and data?
14 days is standard with our subscription with an option to extend it to 30 days.
18. Where is the video stored?
All raw video is stored on the robot, with event related videos stored in the cloud.
19. Can the robot be used in parking lots and parking structures?
Yes. Over 60% of the robots d
eployed are patrolling parking lots or structures. The K5 Outdoor ASR can travel between levels using the same ramps as vehicles, and the largest structure we are patrolling today is a remarkable 9-stories tall!
20. How do they stay out of the way of cars?
We use technologies similar to those used in self-driving vehicles, incorporating LIDAR and proximity sensors into the robot’s navigation system. This allows the robot to detect objects, including vehicles, and reroute itself around them within the pre-programmed patrol routes.
21. Does it read license plates?
Yes. All four cameras can read license plates in 360-degrees as it patrols parking areas.
22. What happens if a person walks up to it?
1). The robot will stop, 2) It can be programmed to say “Excuse me” or another custom message, 3) It can reroute itself around the person and continue on its patrol route.
23. Can it patrol on grass and dirt?
No. We currently only operate on hard surfaces such as concrete, asphalt, commercial grade carpet, marble, tile, etc.
24. Do they work in the rain?
Yes, and we’ve not heard one of them complain about it yet. We have heard a happy whistling tune, though.
25. What about the desert heat and the freezing cold?
Yes. We have robots on patrol at client sites in the Southwest deserts and the frigid Northeast. Currently getting through our 3rd winter!
There you have it, folks. The Top 25. We always compare the amount of information we have to share as an exercise in drinking from the firehose. There’s no way to get it all at one time. So, if you’d like to get clarification on any of the above questions, you have your own set of questions, or of something percolates in the near future, reach out and let us know. We’re here to help!
