Media releases

Federation University Australia researchers are developing technology to help prevent poaching and protect park rangers undertaking important conservation work in Africa.

The mechatronics and machine learning team led by Dr Gayan Kahandawa has built a low-cost mobile surveillance robot designed to alert rangers to groups like poachers entering protected areas.

Gippsland-based Dr Hasitha Hewawasam in Federation’s Centre for Smart Analytics developed the robot’s electronics and programming and worked with Yinnar local Luke Townsend to construct a prototype.

The robot, named GUS (Ground Unmanned System), features, a microphone that uses AI to differentiate between different noises, cell phone detection technology, along with zoom, wide-angle and thermal vision cameras to detect human movement.

A small drone housed within the robot can be deployed for further investigation.

The project has gained high profile recognition at the LAND FORCES International Land Defence Exposition held earlier this month in Brisbane, taking out the award for Best Land Innovation in a pitch-style competition among 20 entrants.

The team showcased how GUS could be used in the defence industry as a surveillance robot.

Now, the researchers a working on a new version of the robot they aim to send to Africa in 2023 to be trialled on the ground.

Quotes attributable to Federation University’s Dr Gayan Kahandawa
“We hope this technology can be used as the first mode of detection for illegal activity, keeping park rangers out of harm’s way.”

“Using the audio technology, our robot can differentiate between a range of sounds from a motorcycle to a firearm or an elephant. The cameras and drone can then be used for further investigation.”

“We are excited to see the technology recognised for its potential use in industries beyond wildlife conservation and look forward to developing a replica that will be easy for rangers to maintain parks.”