Overview
Sanbot is an intelligent, humanoid service robot developed by Qihan Technology, a company focused on innovations in robotics, artificial intelligence and video analysis. The result of years of research and development, the new Sanbot platform will unleash the power of cloud-enabled robotics and AI for retailers, hoteliers, schools, health clinics and operators in many other customer-oriented industries to deliver smarter and more personalized services.
As a catalyst of service innovations and business productivity, Sanbot is taking robotics technology mainstream. With an open API that enables developers to build Android applications that harness Sanbot’s powerful AI and machine-learning capabilities, businesses will deliver more interactive and richer services that increase customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Sanbot is the result of Qihan’s deep collaboration with technology partners, featuring class-leading solutions including rechargeable batteries from Panasonic and image sensors by Sony. Qihan’s capabilities in cloud-enabled robotics and AI are built from years of research and collaboration with institutions including the Harbin Institute of Technology and China University of Geosciences.
The debut of Sanbot at IFA 2016 will generate new opportunities for collaboration with partners in Europe and North America, as Qihan strengthens efforts to make the platform available outside China.
1.Robotics-as-a-Service
Based on Qihan’s “Robotics-as-a-Service” model, Sanbot will help drive the mainstream adoption of robotics technology by empowering a wide range of business services and creating new Smart Home possibilities for households.
With an open API, developers will be able to build Android applications that harness Sanbot’s powerful AI and machine-learning capabilities. Sanbot is designed to provide interactive applications in retail stores, restaurants, nursing homes, schools and any organizations and businesses that need to deliver high-quality services to customers and users.
Sanbot is powered by Qihan’s proprietary cloud-based AI innovations designed for seamless and natural interactions with humans, incorporating semantic comprehension, face detection, 3D image sensing, gesture interaction and more. The user-friendly Sanbot features the highest-quality components including a lithium battery unit from Panasonic, and image sensor technology by Sony.
The powerful robotics capabilities of Sanbot are realized through a seamless integration of hardware and software, with a cloud-based platform powered by advanced AI algorithms, enabling facial and voice recognition, user management, communications support, remote hardware control, data storage and more.
2.Managed Service Model
Qihan plans to offer Sanbot in a managed service and subscription-based model in Europe and North America, to enable customers to deploy the new robotics platform based on their business needs. Designed for different customer-oriented industries including shopping malls, retail stores, restaurants, hotels, nursing homes and schools, Sanbot can be deployed in a flexible and cost-efficient way to generate value and returns on investment, with excellent business and technical support provided by Qihan in collaboration with local partners.
Qihan is focusing on developing Sanbot solutions in 5 key industry verticals:
a)Retail and dining
b)Hospitality
c)Healthcare
d)Education
e)Security and surveillance
In Europe and North America, Qihan will expand its operations and work closely with local partners to support the growth of Sanbot. There are many different channels for partnerships with Qihan:
-Distributors: Distributors and suppliers of technology solutions for retail, F&B, hospitality, healthcare, education and security industries
-Application developers: Developers of value-added software and applications that can be deployed on Sanbot via the Android-based API
-Cloud solution providers: Data center and cloud services providers that offer cloud hosting for Sanbot-based services and applications. At present, Qihan is partnering with cloud service vendors including AliCloud.
-System integrators and operators: Providers of information technology services for retail, F&B, hospitality, education and security industries
To support the growth of Sanbot, Qihan will increase its investments in research and development, sales, training and marketing support in key target markets including the U.K., Germany and France. Qihan expects to see strong demand for Sanbot in Europe and North America, after excellent market reception since its introduction in China. Sanbot is currently deployed by major retailers and service providers including:
-Airports – Sanbot now provides real-time interactive services and information at major airports including Shenzhen International Airport and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport
-Retailers – Sanbot is deployed by major Chinese retailers including Tibet Glacial Water and Rainbow Department Store Co. Ltd., a retailer listed on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange.
-E-commerce – Sanbot is used by E-commerce operators including Huashuan51.com, a premium online retailer in China, to increase consumer engagement and website traffic.
-Healthcare – Sanbot is deployed by health clinics including Intellicell to provide personalized healthcare services to patients including long-distance medical consultations, access of health records and medical prescriptions.
-Education – Sanbot is used by pre-school and child education service providers including Wiswellbooks as teaching assistants, engaging children with educational games, music and course materials to make learning more interactive.
3.Tri-polar System Architecture
Sanbot’s powerful artificial intelligence capabilities are empowered by Qihan’s proprietary tri-polar system architecture comprising the robot, private cloud and the Q-Link mobile application.
The computing power of Sanbot is distributed on both private cloud servers and the robot’s advanced onboard processors and sensors. In addition, Sanbot is designed to integrate seamlessly with Q-Link, a proprietary mobile application that enables real-time communications, and also serves as a powerful console that enable users to control and access Sanbot’s data and functionalities. Q-Link offers an open development platform through which users can control Sanbot and add functionality. Additionally, users can take direct control of Sanbot, guiding the robot using manual controls or using Sanbot’s built-in audio-visual features and HD cameras. From customizing user preferences to storing media files to adding retailer-specific data, the Q-Link Cloud System allows users to customize and personalize their interactions with Sanbot. Q-Link is available for download via the Apple App Store and Google Play.
The unique tri-ploar system architecture of the Sanbot is key to its powerful AI and machine-learning capabilities, supporting seamless and natural interactions with users through semantic comprehension, voice recognition, 3D face and image sensing. In addition, the Sanbot supports open API to enable customers create customized Android applications, further enhancing its power and usability.
Sanbot’s tri-polar system is fully encrypted and supports advanced access control, guaranteeing the highest standards of information safety and security.
4.A Versatile, Full-Featured Robotic Assistant
Sanbot is equipped with advanced input sensors that allow it to understand and communicate with the world around it. The body is designed to detect obstacles, human beings and other objects, making it a nimble and unobtrusive addition to any commercial space. Its head can sense human beings, read gestures and facial expressions and respond to complex voice commands.
Sanbot’s chassis sports a 10.1 inch 1080P touch screen display which can be used to enter commands or view high-definition content. It also includes a built-in projector that projects a bright 1920 x 720 HD picture in a 16:9 aspect ratio. It also includes two cameras, including an 8 MP HD camera, which can capture footage and give users a look at what Sanbot sees.
Sanbot is connected – featuring 802.11 a/b/g/n Wi-Fi standards on both 2GHz and 5GHz wavelengths. It also features Bluetooth 4.0 and ZigBee connectivity, enabling SanBot to truly be the hub of your connected ecosystem.
Additionally, Sanbot is powered by a 20Ah/300W lithium battery that can keep it running at full load for four hours and in standby mode for ten. When Sanbot needs to charge, it’s able to find its charging station on its own, making power management concerns an afterthought.
5.Smart Robotics for Smarter Business
For businesses looking to stand out from their competition, Sanbot provides a unique way to engage customers and deliver better service. Sanbot offers a versatile, intelligent and fun experience that elevates simple activities such as going to dinner, visiting a tourist destination, going shopping and more. And for industries like healthcare and education, Sanbot can be a helpful assistant due to its intuitive, smart voice recognition technologies and mobility.
Sanbot’s cloud-enabled connected ecosystem – managed through the robust Q-Link mobile app - can help businesses and service providers learn about customer behavior and preferences. This allows for better, more personalized service. And, of course, Sanbot’s servers are built with advanced encryption features designed to protect user information. Since Sanbot is mobile, it can be a guide for new visitors to large retail spaces. It’s able to communicate via video and audio, and can be an attention-getting marketing platform. And because it’s smart, it can provide customer service experiences that satisfy and entertain.
Sanbot is an excellent addition to your workforce and can help increase efficiency and cost-savings in a way that complements human workers. For example, in a healthcare setting, Sanbot can be a friendly, reassuring presence that’s available at any hour of the day. In a retail setting, they can be an always-on marketer that helps drive traffic and presents a unique way to share information on sales, deals and more.
Additionally, Sanbot can help keep your business safe, with high-definition cameras, motion sensors and the ability to maintain patrol routes, Sanbot can be a vigilant observer that protects your business and your customers.
6.A Smart Addition to the Smart Home
While Sanbot is initially being released for the commercial market, it can easily be a fun and exciting addition to any household. With unparalleled connectivity and an API that encourages openness and extensibility, Sanbot can become the hub of your home’s connected life. Sanbot is equipped to help track personal finance data and scheduling, manage personal files and more. As an app-driven platform, Sanbot can deliver the versatile experiences we’ve come to expect from smart technology.
Sanbot can be the ultimate entertainment device with its built-in projector and suite of high-end audio-visual capabilities. For kids, Sanbot is a wonderful companion that can play games and dance and even help with the homework. And beyond that, children and the elderly can rely on Sanbot to help them access the connected world. With easy- to-use voice commands, they can use Sanbot to place video calls, access information and interact with popular online services.
Sanbot will also enhance security, enabling users to monitor event and potential breaches in their homes, protecting against intruders.