How Hong Kong Polytechnic University’s Smart Firefighting Robots Use Radar and AI to Detect Fires Without GPS

At the 2026 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) garnered significant attention by winning three innovation awards, with its Smart Firefighting Robots standing out as a key highlight. These robots represent a cutting-edge advancement in firefighting technology, designed to detect and respond to fires autonomously using radar and artificial intelligence (AI) without relying on GPS signals.

Traditional firefighting robots often depend on GPS for navigation and fire detection, which can be unreliable or unavailable in indoor or obstructed environments such as dense urban buildings or underground facilities. PolyU’s innovation addresses this limitation by equipping their robots with radar systems capable of penetrating smoke and obstacles, enabling the detection of fire sources even in challenging conditions. The AI algorithms process radar data in real-time to identify fire signatures and assess the environment, allowing the robots to navigate safely and efficiently toward the fire.

The use of radar technology combined with AI not only enhances the robots’ ability to detect fires but also improves their operational autonomy. Without GPS, these robots can function in GPS-denied environments, making them highly versatile for various firefighting scenarios. Their compact size and smart navigation capabilities allow them to access confined or hazardous spaces that might be dangerous or inaccessible for human firefighters.

PolyU’s Smart Firefighting Robots also integrate communication features that enable them to relay critical information back to human operators or emergency response teams. This connectivity ensures coordinated firefighting efforts and enhances situational awareness during emergencies. The robots’ design prioritizes rapid deployment and adaptability, which are crucial for minimizing fire damage and protecting lives.

Winning three innovation awards at CES 2026 underscores the significance of PolyU’s contributions to emergency response technology. Their advancements demonstrate how combining radar sensing and AI can overcome traditional limitations in robotic firefighting. As urban environments become more complex and fire hazards evolve, such intelligent robotic systems could play an increasingly vital role in enhancing public safety and emergency management.

Overall, the Smart Firefighting Robots developed by the Hong Kong Polytechnic University exemplify the potential of integrating advanced sensing technologies with AI to create autonomous systems capable of operating effectively without GPS. This innovation not only improves firefighting capabilities but also sets a precedent for future developments in robotics and emergency response technologies.