Researchers from Fresno State have developed a robot capable of protecting kids in crosswalks amid crossing guard shortages.

Resembling a small lawnmower — but one that features a single black pole with a tablet-sized screen attached — the so-called CrossBot has a 360° view of its environment. Further, it is outfitted with sensors, like lidar, a microphone, radar, video camera capabilities, a speaker system and advanced algorithms.

Source: Hovannes Kulhandjian

To keep children safe, the patent-pending robot reportedly rolls into a crosswalk displaying a red screen. As vehicles approach and subsequently stop, the screen turns green, thereby signaling to kids waiting at the curb that it's safe to cross.

During trials of the device on city streets, the robot demonstrated a rate of accuracy for detecting vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians of roughly 90%.

"CrossBot is designed to complement and enhance human efforts rather than replace them. In many areas, there may not be enough human crossing guards available, especially in regions lacking traffic lights or during times when staffing is limited. CrossBot can fill these gaps, providing additional safety measures during critical times and in high-demand areas."