United Robotics Group: WATCHER

The mobile robot WATCHER monitors and inspects machines, systems or facilities both indoors and outdoors. Thanks to its design, combined with modern navigation technology using 3D SLAM and GPS, WATCHER can even work in outdoor areas that are difficult to access or at risk from the weather - either autonomously or remotely by an operator. WATCHER uses modern sensor technology, such as PTZ and thermal imaging cameras or acoustic sensors. WATCHER reports the data it collects to the control center in real time.

With these capabilities, WATCHER overcomes the limitations of static monitoring systems in terms of range, flexibility and responsiveness. In addition, it also records precise monitoring data for predictive maintenance.

Using the thermal camera, WATCHER carries out infrared spectroscopy and detects even marginal temperature deviations in machines and systems. This allows, for example, overloads, density problems or operation outside of optimum conditions to be detected and rectified at an early stage. In conjunction with a corresponding AI model, the acoustic sensor can learn the noise signature of running machines and subsequently report even the smallest deviations from this profile - for example due to inadequate lubrication - to the relevant teams. Future iterations of the WATCHER can also be equipped with additional sensors, e.g. for vibration analysis.

WATCHER also benefits from the versatility of its sensors in the security segment. In addition to monitoring premises, perimeters or warehouses, it can check, for example, whether doors and windows are properly closed and other security systems are functioning correctly. WATCHER integrates modules for detecting and reporting unknown persons or vehicles. All in all, WATCHER not only increases the capacity of the security team and operational safety, but also reduces the operating costs of monitoring tasks, the time they take and any risks for security personnel.

Optimization of safety and inspection processes

WATCHER expands the repertoire of safety and inspection teams with skills beyond human perception and thus makes a major contribution to the optimization of safety and inspection processes. For example, WATCHER makes it much easier to record, verify and document safety-related incidents and combines capabilities that were previously only possible by combining several products or even entire product systems. As a result, WATCHER can significantly reduce the costs of monitoring tasks in the short to medium term.

WATCHER stands out from other robotic solutions in particular due to its speed and mobility. For example, it can inspect large areas much faster and more comprehensively than leg-based robots. Furthermore, WATCHER minimizes risks for security personnel, for example when operating in unsafe terrain or inspecting dangerous objects, and enables personnel on site to focus on higher-value tasks.

WATCHER from the United Robotics Group, nominated in the robotics category.