Dr. Kamran Mahroof, a representative from the University of Bradford, recently presented a groundbreaking trial involving robotic dogs and aerial drones at a conference in Birmingham. The initiative is part of the 6G-VERSUS research project, an EU-funded program aimed at enhancing wildfire detection and response capabilities.
The core objective of this trial is straightforward: to identify wildfires as soon as possible. Dr. Mahroof carried the urgency of the issue, too. He added, “Wildfires are a worldwide phenomenon and have been getting worse and more frequent in the past years. Sadly, West Yorkshire has experienced an alarming increase in wildfire occurrences over the last few years. Recent events on Marsden Moor and Ilkley Moor have tragically exposed the seriously damaging effects of this worrying trend.
The University of Bradford’s team is developing a combined robotic dog and aerial drone system designed to boost situational awareness for first responders during wildfires. Through the use of this innovative technology—netwitness’—artificial intelligence analyzes real-time camera feeds and calls out dangers. It uses 6G communications links to communicate vital information. Within minutes teams can use the system to pinpoint those most at risk. It helps to ensure that critical resources are directed to where they are needed most.
“We are immensely proud to be at the forefront of research addressing this pressing global challenge.” – Dr Kamran Mahroof
The West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service (WYFRS) were not aware that this technology existed. What they did show was a willingness to work together with the team from University of Bradford.
This time next year, the research team will be on their way to Greece. To that end, they’re planning a pilot study as one component of the 6G-VERSUS initiative. Leading this phase of the project will be Dr. Konstantinos Katsaros and academic advisor Dr. Lazaros Karagiannidis. Both of them hail from the Greek-based Institute of Communication and Computer Systems (ICCS).
“In the Greek pilot of SNS-JU 6G-VERSUS, we’re developing a combined robotic dog and aerial drone system that boosts situational awareness for first responders during wildfires.” – Team
Here’s a look at the world-changing power of artificial intelligence that we were inspired to present in Birmingham. It shone a spotlight on the increasingly vital role that innovation plays in strengthening our emergency response ecosystem.
“By applying AI to interpret real-time camera feeds and using 6G links to relay the data, we can help teams quickly identify people at risk and deploy resources where they’re needed most, all while keeping responders safe.” – Team