Many dangerous occupations are now starting to employ robots rather than human beings. In Japan, robots are currently in development to tackle coal mining and nuclear cleanup - two of the world’s most hazardous professions. And, here in the States, one man has invented a robot to take on another dangerous job: bar security guard.
Inventor Rufus Terrill, 57, owns an Irish-themed bar called (appropriately) O’Terrill’s in downtown Atlanta. Although he’s surrounded by upscale condos and high-end restaurants, Terrill noticed “vagrants” congregating near his bar once the sun went down. Used needles were discarded alarmingly close to a nearby childcare center, and break-ins and robberies became commonplace. When he first purchased the business four years ago, Terrill – an ex-Marine – patrolled the place with an assault rifle planted on his shoulder. The police objected, so he tried using a spotlight. Still, the issues continued, and he was even threatened with a gun on several occasions. So, Terrill’s wife suggested he try a safer way: robot patrol.
Terrill applied his environmental engineering background to develop the “Bum Bot,” a three-wheeled, 300-pound security device that stands waist-high. The Bum Bot’s black exterior is emblazoned on three sides with the word “SECURITY” in bold white lettering. Fully equipped with a loud speaker, spotlight, infrared video camera and water cannon, the Bum Bot is a menacing presence. When Terrill sees a shady character loitering in the vicinity, he moves the robot toward the subject via his self-designed remote control. Terrill begins by turning on the robot’s red eyes followed by the spotlight. Then, the Bum Bot issues a warning that the scene is being filmed. If additional measures are needed, Terrill dictates warnings via the loudspeakers. Usually, the person or persons scatter away. If not, Terrill calls the police.
But homeless advocates and civic leaders decry Terrill’s tactics. They argue that this type of security patrol does nothing to curtail the causes of poverty and drug use, and simply pushes the problem into another neighborhood. Terrill, they say, is in it for the publicity instead of concern for neighborhood safety. And, certainly, the Bum Bot has brought a good deal of attention to Terrill, a mayoral hopeful who plans to wear a Bum Bot T-shirt during his campaign. Regulars at the bar are now greeted with a sign that says “Home of the Bum Bot”, and Terrill even broadcasts Bum Bot surveillance videos on a large TV screen so patrons can watch the action. Still, despite all the controversy, Terrill insists he has the right to defend his property.
To see the Bum Bot in action, individuals can view the Associated Press video on YouTube.
