BEIJING -- In a notable advancement within Beijing's push towards smart city development, two robotic dogs have begun patrolling a park in the Beijing Economic-Technological Development Area (E-Town) in southeast Beijing.

Equipped with multi-spectral cameras and high-precision sensors, these robotic canines are part of an upgraded intelligent patrol system designed to enhance urban safety and management.

On Saturday, Beijing E-Town announced the deployment of this advanced patrol technology, which includes not only the two robotic dogs but also 18 Level 4 (L4) unmanned patrol vehicles and 15 manned patrol vehicles.

This integration aims to ensure 24-hour comprehensive surveillance across the area, marking a significant step in the region's urban security framework.

Each robotic dog weighs approximately 65 kilograms and is designed to function in various extreme environmental conditions, including heavy rain and elevated temperatures.

The dogs feature a multi-spectral camera positioned on their heads, characterizing their ability to conduct detailed ground inspections.

Additionally, the robotic dogs have versatile back designs that can accommodate specialized equipment such as explosion-proof gear and gas detectors, allowing them to perform a broad range of tasks effectively.

The unmanned vehicles are also equipped with sophisticated technology, including 360-degree panoramic cameras and advanced sensors.

When linked to the smart city video monitoring system, they contribute to a robust three-dimensional surveillance network that merges aerial and ground monitoring capabilities.

According to Beijing E-Town officials, the robotic dogs and unmanned vehicles work in tandem, with the former focusing on intricate surveillance on foot and the latter managing supply deliveries and data transfers.

The initiative aims to streamline operations and enhance overall efficiency in urban management.

This upgraded patrol system utilizes cutting-edge AI algorithms and big data analysis to identify potential risks such as fire hazards and other abnormal activities in real-time.

Via a 5G network, the system rapidly communicates any important findings to the command center, facilitating timely responses to emergencies.

A spokesperson from Beijing E-Town noted, "The upgraded system has tripled patrol efficiency compared to traditional methods and significantly reduces blind spots in surveillance."

Looking towards upcoming community events, the robotic dogs are expected to play a security role during a half-marathon planned for April 2024, where they will share the course with both robotic and human athletes.

The robotic dog technology is part of China's broader expansion into the field of artificial intelligence, which has seen a surge in innovation.

While the quadruped robotics market remains in its early stages, it has attracted significant interest from numerous Chinese companies, motivated by promising commercial prospects.

Research from a consultancy in Shenzhen indicates that the global quadruped robot market is anticipated to exceed 560,000 units by 2030, with a possible market valuation of over 8 billion yuan (approximately $1.1 billion).