Out on Singapore’s waters, poor network connectivity may pose a challenge for Police Coast Guard (PCG) vessels looking to detect speeding boats in the dark or spot struggling mariners out at sea.
By installing artificial intelligence (AI) software directly on patrol boat computers, officers can analyse data and images captured by sensors instantly – even when the machines are not connected via a strong network to cloud servers. This can help PCG officers detect suspicious activities more efficiently while patrolling Singapore’s coastline.
This is one vision HTX (Home Team Science and Technology Agency) engineer Liang Shi Yi has in mind for PCG and other Home Team agencies, as he develops what is known as edge AI.
This involves processing data within devices on-site rather than at centralised servers.
By having AI capabilities built into their equipment, officers can make quicker decisions on the spot rather than wait for information to be processed centrally.
“We want to deploy AI on the edge in situations where you cannot afford delay,” says Shi Yi, who holds a dual role as an engineer at HTX’s Q Team Centre of Expertise as well as a manager in the Strategic Plans department.
In the latter role, Shi Yi monitors global trends and threats, and explores how HTX can bolster Singapore’s security.
One area Shi Yi is investigating is creatures from nature. He has recently been exploring biomimetic climbing robots, which uses nature-inspired solutions for robotic locomotion. These robo-beetles are designed to crawl into narrow crevices to locate trapped victims or hidden explosives.
“Beetles have tiny hooks on their legs that help them to attach to walls,” explains Shi Yi, who has a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Purdue University and a master of science degree from Stanford University. “A climbing robot inspired by beetles would be useful where it is dangerous for humans to enter.”
Another interesting project Shi Yi is working on is a hybrid ground-aerial robot. With propellers on top and wheels at the bottom, it is like a remote-controlled car that can also fly over treacherous terrain. Through designing these robots with unique shapes and features, Shi Yi is able to apply the design methodology he learnt at Stanford University, which focuses on understanding the users’ problem and finding a solution that matches users’ needs.
“We want to deploy AI on the edge in situations where you cannot afford delay.”
– Liang Shi Yi, HTX Q Team engineer
In his role as an engineer with the Q Team, Shi Yi has a down-to-earth approach to finding practical deployments for tech. “Out of the various products I have worked on, the Q-stick is one that I really like,” he says.
A microphone boom pole with attached 360-degree camera and light, the Q-stick allows police officers to check hard-to-access areas such as false ceilings and drains. “Even though it looks like a simple low-tech solution, the beauty lies in its simplicity and low cost,” Shi Yi explains.
Since he joined HTX two years ago, the mission of HTX to advance science and technology to enhance the Home Team’s capabilities in securing Singapore’s future continues to resonate with Shi Yi. “I’ve always been very interested in using technology to make our country safer,” he says.
“At HTX, no one knows the exact solution and there are different ways to approach a given problem,” he adds. “There is a sense of challenge and satisfaction that comes with solving problems.”
| Join the HTX team HTX is looking for talented individuals with a strong interest and aptitude for advanced technology like robotics and AI to future-proof Singapore’s safety and security. Bright minds are required to find solutions in a wide variety of areas, from investigating crime to safeguarding our borders. Outstanding students are invited to apply for the HTX Scholarship, a full-ride scholarship for STEM disciplines. |
This article is brought to you by the Home Team Science and Technology Agency.
