Chinese scientists have unveiled an AI-powered rescue robot which can be operated without human intervention. Researchers recently have tested the pioneering technology in a river in Luohe city, Henan province in central China.

The robot was developed by a research team led by Dr. Yu Daoyang from Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences. It employs AI, big data and advanced tracking technologies and provides 24/7 all-weather monitoring, early warnings, and rapid rescue operation.

The robot relies on a network of 100 optical and thermal imaging cameras employed at restricted water areas for 24/7 monitoring. Camera footage is transmitted in real time to servers using an algorithm where people entering restricted waters are detected, identified, analyzed and located. It determines whether an individual is drowning and whether it should initiate a rescue command.

Upon receiving a rescue command from the server, the robot automatically sets sail and autonomously plans a rescue route based on the location provided by the server. Using a dual-spectrum camera, it will adjust its trajectory based on the victim's real-time position, provide equipment such as a life-saving buoy, and release a rescue arm to pull people from the water.

The research team also developed an autonomous docking and charging dock. After completing its mission, the robot returns to the dock, locks into place, and initiates automatic charging.