Cobalt Robotics announced today that their robots are able to call and dispatch Otis elevators remotely via the Otis Integrated Dispatch API.
Cobalt robots primarily provide safety and security in corporate office environments, automating security workflows more reliably than humans. The robots can provide coverage to multiple floors by integrating with elevators, increasing the speed with which teams can resolve their safety issues throughout their spaces.
As we’ve discussed on The Robot Report Podcast, elevator integration has been one of the greatest hurdles to the successful deployment of indoor AMRs that rely on elevator transportation to operate across multiple-level buildings. Elevator integration can sometimes delay deployment projects by up to six months while all of the various permits and safety evaluations, and exceptions are completed.
Cobalt is shortening this process by working with one of the market leaders in the commercial lift space.
“Our relationship with Otis continues to bring the power of AI-backed security solutions throughout the world,” said Mike LeBlanc, President and COO of Cobalt Robotics. “By integrating seamlessly into buildings with Otis elevators, our robots are able to cover more square footage than any other security robot.”
Cobalt and Otis have been working together on elevator implementations across continents and at Fortune 500 companies since 2020. Otis Elevator has about 20% of the elevator market worldwide.
The Otis Integrated Dispatch Api enables robots from a variety of manufacturers to communicate with virtually any Otis elevator via the cloud or a local connection. It offers greater flexibility and scalability than traditional hard-wired integrations, allowing robots to work with a bank of elevators rather than just one, while also allowing for deeper integration.
“Otis is always looking for the best new technologies and innovations to deliver to our customers,” said Neil Green, Otis Chief Digital Officer. “As more buildings turn to service robots to enhance customer experiences and improve productivity for employees, we’re proud to work with Cobalt and other robot providers to bring seamless innovation and value to customers.”
Remote Guarding Service Solution from Cobalt
Cobalt’s Remote Guarding Service Solution uses state-of-the-art robots with more than 60 sensors, such as day/night cameras, 360-degree cameras, thermal cameras, depth cameras, LIDAR, and the ability to read badges. The robot can independently identify and flag security-relevant anomalies such as people, sounds, motion, doors and windows, and missing assets using machine learning, semantic mapping, and novelty detection. Each robot has a screen that allows remote security specialists and on-site personnel to communicate.
Cobalt’s security specialists provide human assistance for complex situations in the event of an incident. Based on collaboratively established post orders, they will triage the incident, contact appropriate personnel, and report back to the security team 24/7/365. They can also use the robot to greet employees, request badge credentials, and ensure guest check-in.