Robots and drones deployed for disinfection
When Malaysian authorities released multilingual drones to monitor the Movement Control Order (MCO), the high-tech 2020 we imagined in our heads seemed to be finally coming true.
Cementing us further in a futuristic movie, robots and drones are now being used to sanitise public spaces and hospitals against COVID-19 in Malaysia. Following China’s footsteps, these robots are the extra pair of hands frontliners need during this time.
Robotic tanks to spray sanitiser
These disinfectant robots are miniature tanks that have been repurposed with a disinfectant system. They were created by 7 individuals in just 2 weeks.
Image credit: The Star
On 3rd April 2020, Bernama reported that Universiti Putra Malaysia (UMP) is developing 5 robots to help officials with nationwide disinfection, and they’re expected to be completed next week. These robots are also being prepped to help carry out disinfections, distribute food, and screen patients’ temperatures at public hospitals.
As confirmed by The Star, these disinfectant robots will begin to roam campus grounds and Hospital Pengajaran UPM, a training hospital, next week in its first phase. There are plans for them to be utilised to disinfect streets and help out at public hospitals if called into action and provided with necessary funding.
Disinfectant robots and heat imaging robots seen in China, which Malaysia is now taking cues from.
Image adapted from: Business Insider
Drones have also been sanitising streets
Image credit: DBKL
According to this post on Twitter by the Minister of Federal Territories on 31st March 2020, drones are also being used to spray sanitiser at public spaces. Each of these drones are able to haul 16 litres of liquid at a time, with a 20-minute flight time to carry out its sanitation operations.
These repurposed drones can spray sanitiser from high altitudes
Image credit: DBKL
It’s still being tested out for feasibility as lamp posts and electric wires prove to be obstacles, but it’ll save on manpower with its target areas being public corridors in high-rise buildings.
Disinfection carried out by robots and drones
It’s all hands on deck now. And robotic hands will help to minimise any human contact during this time. We’re thankful for innovative ideas such as these to keep public spaces clean. Not to mention, it’ll greatly help out those who already have their hands full on the frontlines.
Keep up to date with COVID-19 news in Malaysia here:
- M’sia man post RM13,000 bail for jogging during MCO
- WHO expects COVID-19 cases to rise in Malaysia
- Adorable 3-legged cat tries to catch fake lizard during MCO
- Free exam prep on public TV for M’sian students
- Ipoh man rescues dog abandoned during MCO