Better Ideas From Japan: 'Robocop' Rolled Out

"Scientists develop 'robocop' to capture suspects "
Telegraph.co.uk (January 22, 2009)

"A Japanese robot maker has unveiled a prototype "robocop" security android equipped with heat sensors to detect intruders and armed with a net to hurl over suspects.

"Tmsuk Co developed its T-34 robot in conjunction with security firm Alacom Co and aims to develop squads of robots that will be able to keep an artificial eye on office buildings and industrial complexes.

"In the future, versions may also be developed to be used in homes, according to company spokeswoman Mariko Ishikawa...."


(from Reuters, via Telegraph.co.uk, used without permission)
'Resistance is futile. You will be entangled.'

A T-34 stands 60 centimeters tall, a little shy of two feet.

I'm not sure that I'd call it a robot: T-34 needs a controller, presumably a human. Given time, though, something like this with artificial intelligence could take over routine patrols in office buildings, warehouses, and the like. I suppose they'd call a human when something odd happened - like finding and restraining someone who didn't belong on their beat.

That setup would have some real advantages: T-34's 'descendants' wouldn't get bored, or take naps. They could be hacked, but can you imagine trying to bribe one of those things?

More ideas - good, dubious, and strange - at "Better Ideas From ... "