Lack of guards is a common issue faced by many industries, resulting in overworked employees and a decrease in vigilance and performance. To address this problem, Swiss startup Ascento has developed security robots known as Ascento Guard.
Founded in 2018 by graduates of the Polytechnic School of Thuring, the company currently employs 10 individuals. It has successfully raised $4.3 million in funding from Wingman Ventures and Playfair Capital.
The Ascento Guard robot operates at a human-like speed, carrying out important yet simple tasks such as patrolling the perimeter, identifying holes in fences, conducting heat scanning for intrusions and fires, as well as monitoring lighting and parking areas. When a threat is detected, the robot alerts a designated person through a specialized application that is integrated with video surveillance systems and safeguarded with encryption.
The robot is equipped with both legs and wheels, enabling it to navigate various surfaces while conserving battery charge. Its legs can be folded, allowing it to tackle stairs and pits without difficulty.
The aim is for these robots to become reliable partners for employees in the surveillance of large facilities. However, Ascento’s Ethical Code strictly prohibits any physical contact between the robot and humans.
In line with Boston Dynamics’ initiative for the peaceful use of robotics, Ascento has pledged not to employ their developments as weapons.
Alessandro Morra, the head of Ascento, identifies American companies Cobalt and Knightscope as their main competitors. While Cobalt focuses on internal protection, and Knightscope operates in densely populated areas, Ascento distinguishes itself through its orientation towards industrial zones and enhanced cross-country capabilities.
Morra emphasizes that this project marks just the beginning for Ascento. Their future plans include training robots for indoor and aerial operations.
In conclusion, Morra highlights, “Robots offer a solution to the pressing issue of personnel shortages. However, our true advantage lies in leveraging AI to analyze collected data, enabling us to identify the timing and location of incidents and monitor machines that are constantly parked where they shouldn’t be.”