A new robot, resembling a small lawnmower with a single black pole and a tablet-sized screen, has been developed to assist children in crossing streets safely. Named CrossBot, this prototype, created by Hovannes Kulhandjian, an associate professor in electrical and computer engineering at Fresno State, aims to address the shortage of crossing guards in the Bay Area.

"CrossBot has a 360-degree view of its surroundings," said Kulhandjian. "It's a serious device with a very low probability of error, crucial when dealing with children's safety."

Kulhandjian, who also collaborates with the Mineta Transportation Institute in San Jose, is currently seeking a patent for CrossBot. The robot is equipped with sensors, including Lidar, a microphone, radar, video camera capabilities, a speaker system, and advanced algorithms. In a demonstration, CrossBot waits at the curb and then moves into the crosswalk when traffic is clear.

The robot's screen displays red when it enters the crosswalk and turns green when it is safe for children to cross. It can also inform visually impaired individuals when it is safe to cross.

Kulhandjian was inspired to create CrossBot after observing teachers acting as crossing guards while taking his daughters to school. He trusts the robot to assist all children, including his own, and notes that it has been tested on city streets with over 90% accuracy in detecting vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians.

However, not all parents are convinced. Kelly Lathrop, a parent from Lafayette, expressed concerns about replacing human crossing guards with robots, citing the personal connection and reliability of human guards. Angela Roberts, a mother from Santa Clara, also voiced concerns about the robot's reliability but acknowledged the challenges in hiring and retaining crossing guards.

Several school districts in the Bay Area have reported a shortage of crossing guards, exacerbated by the pandemic. This shortage has led to inconsistent staffing and days without any crossing guards.

Pedestrian-related accidents are a significant concern, with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention noting that such accidents are the second-leading cause of death for children under 14. The Governors Highway Safety Association reported over 7,500 pedestrian deaths in 2022, the highest number since 1981.

Robots are increasingly used in various industries, from transporting goods to assisting with security inspections. According to Mordor Intelligence, the global robotics market is projected to reach $95.93 billion by 2029.

Kulhandjian emphasized that CrossBot is designed to complement human efforts, not replace them. He believes the robot could last a decade and cost a school district between $15,000 and $17,000.

"CrossBot is meant to enhance safety measures, especially in areas with limited human crossing guards," Kulhandjian said. "It can provide additional safety during critical times and in high-demand areas."