Autonomous Solutions Within Physical Security

Imagine a world where premises are secured 24/7, without fail or flagging. Imagine 365 days a year, a security detail of your facility and of the surrounding property. Automation is an ideal solution, as long as the price is affordable and the solution is effective. This could be the future of your business security, fulfilled by autonomous AI-powered robotics. How far away is this from being a reality? How feasible is this solution compared to traditional security solutions? Is this the right solution to solve your security needs?

Photo Credit: KTNV

Brief History of Robot Guards

It is uncommon in the US to see autonomous robots performing security work. Some malls, campuses, warehouses, and other facilities utilize this technology. Around the world, an estimated $6 million worth of robots are securing sites globally, with the US accounting for only 31%. In 2024, ~8,000 robots were reported to be in use in the civilian sector. Manufacturing these robots is spread across approximately 1,400 companies, with varying degrees of success and autonomy, from parking nannies to roving robot dogs to rolling surveillance. As this number is expected to rise, so too is the implementation of AI.

While there is growth in the world of robotics in the security industry, there is also its fair share of skepticism. Some have seen videos of vandalism against these autonomous devices, from physical assault, graffiti, and spray paint to harassment and hazing by preventing these devices from conducting their work to varying degrees of hostility. With the cost still within the 10's of thousands of dollars per unit, damage and malicious vandalism may cost you more than you expect to save with these solutions.

Capabilities and Limitations

While impressive in scope, the facts about these solutions are still in their infancy. Several companies are operating with the beginnings of patrol and reporting capabilities for autonomous devices. From Knightscope's K5 model for roving security alongside their suite of AI-powered detection and monitoring systems, to Cobalt AI's minimal roving security option. Most, if not all, robotic device services are moving towards AI-powered solutions for detecting and reporting. Testimonials from these companies and their customers show use cases at convention centers, airports, college campuses, and warehouses. Growth is slow, and widespread usage in public spaces without large crowds to provide self-monitoring behavior has been scarce or nonexistent. Many cases have existed to monitor parking and secure spaces behind several other entry control solutions.

Don't let this fool you: for edge use cases, these solutions may not only be affordable but also viable options for your business. Powered by AI algorithms, these devices can detect license plates, gunfire, security breaches in physical obstacles, and generate data that reveals trends and helps alleviate security stressors. Niche devices are being built and tested for all-terrain, aerial, and emergency support. These solutions have strong track records in industries where

vandalism is low, and human alternatives are required for safety or viability.

Claims to Success and Failures Expected

There have been many claims in the realm of autonomous solutions since there has been a need to fill. Some of these claims have been more successful than others, yet improvement and innovation are the human way.

Claim #1 - 24/7 Vigilance Without Fatigue.

Promises that a robot will provide security around the clock, without fail, never getting bored, tired, or distracted. Consistent coverage consistently.

Successes

● Most, if not all, reported cases involve robots operating for 21+ hours daily, with short periods of docking and charging.

● Consistent data collection without human lapse in coverage. Recording and scanning capabilities that do not miss details without a range of sight.

● Extensive data and storage capabilities for all images and recordings. Pattern

recognition software and alert systems tied to emergency services.

Failures

● Collision detection capabilities are not advanced enough to account for the random variability of humans. Collisions with people and vehicles happen semi-regularly.

● Limited scope when traversing areas with obstacles such as stairs, ramps, uneven surfaces, and water features. This claim is valid in many cases, as it operates for long periods without affecting the community, businesses, or robot's duties. There is one case of a Robot operating flawlessly at Brywood Center, Kansas City. On the other hand, a reported robot drowning has occurred when a bot navigating around wet conditions slipped down a set of stairs into a local water feature on the property.

Photo Credit: 1X

Claim #2 - Significant Crime Reduction

With the deployment of monitoring technology that is but a phone call away from the authorities that operate ceaselessly. There would be a lower chance of individuals getting away with crimes due to surveillance.

Successes

● Limited control studies show a marked decrease in crime rates ranging from 18% to 50% depending on the region.

● Private property claims for vandalism, violent crime, and more decreased when deployed within 4-6 months.

Skepticism

● Data is not widespread enough to verify consistency across sectors within the US. Many of these cases were in controlled situations with external and on-site monitoring assistance.

● Confounding variables continue to be additional security measures implemented

alongside these solutions, such as increased lighting, human presence, additional autonomous solutions, and policy changes.

● Displacement to less patrolled and monitored properties have not been appropriately documented due to these implemented programs.

Due to customer confidentiality and a lack of desire for public-facing reports from clients. Reporting the statistics for this particular claim is difficult. As the solution seeps into the market over the coming years, expect to see an increase in data on autonomous security solutions.

Claim #3 - Cost Saving Replacement to Flesh and Blood

Many have automated every aspect of their industry to maximize profits while minimizing costs.

They are willing to sacrifice efficiency and reliability if it means cutting an additional liability to the company's bottom line.

Successes

● Knightscope and Cobalt, leaders in autonomous security solutions, have existing subscription models costing roughly $7 USD.

● No overtime, HR costs, or benefits

● Predictability of cost and service

Risks

● Initial investment can exceed 10k per device without a subscription; combined with the increased risk of vandalism from human aggression against automated solutions, this may lead to significant expenses.

● Downtime for repairs and maintenance due to unforeseen circumstances, as well as vandalism, may compromise the property's security.

● It cannot replace the need for human intervention, it cannot de-escalate situations, nor can it provide emergency assistance in the event of injury or fire.

This solution is viable as support to existing protection, eliminating the need for routine patrol officers. The best ROI comes when pairing human elements to automated services.

Where we are vs. Where are we heading

As we stand in 2025, looking towards the future. We must evaluate what the limitations are versus the expected capabilities if development continues. Environmental conditions continue to blur as improvements are made to models in an attempt to create a truly exceptional model. Emergency response will remain a significant concern going forward, unless a miracle happens and AI can truly operate as a human could; life-saving measures are only possible with human

intervention. False positives from small case studies and data sets, and from controlled environments, may slow things down in the long term. Unforeseen mechanical and electrical issues will result in unavoidable maintenance and downtime. Public perception and acceptance are at record lows worldwide due to concerns about AI-powered solutions. Vandalism and tampering will remain a concern due to multiple factors.

Photo Credit: Defencify Training

It isn't all bad. Currently, we have seen a spike in interest in automated solutions that work alongside human elements to deliver robust outcomes for all parties involved. With improvements in AI and programming, the capabilities of these devices will continue to grow, enabling greater flexibility. AI-powered monitoring will enable threat detection and collect data that may otherwise go unobserved and unreported by human elements. Humans are prone to complacency, causing lapses in judgment and situational awareness. Aerial development continues to improve, hinting at a future of widespread monitoring without the threat of easily

accessible vandalism. Models for Human-Robot teams improve with each case studied; the acceptance and proper use of these devices will lead to improvements in health and safety for all parties involved.

Should You Consider Autonomous Solutions?

Consideration should be made on a case-by-case basis based on length of service, scope of need, and budget. While it may be exciting to hop on the bandwagon along with other early adopters, you must consider the risks to you and your business. Not every solution fits every problem. If you have needs that exceed mobility or concerns about public safety, then this solution is not for you. However, if you are seeking regular patrols to secure sites or public

spaces and are willing to supplement these services with responder services, then this solution may be what you are looking for. Do not discount public sentiment and employee perception when considering automation.

The future is human-powered + AI-supported. Security robots are another tool in your arsenal when creating plans to secure your property. Luckily for you, Diligence Security is here to help you assess your needs, address concerns, and support you in creating a comprehensive plan to protect what matters to you.

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