Small firefighting robot detects fires using radar and AI without GPS

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and its startups received three prestigious awards at the CES Innovation Awards 2026, notably for their Smart Firefighting Robot. This compact, AI-enabled robot tank uses millimeter-wave radar SLAM technology to navigate smoke-filled environments without relying on GPS or vision systems. It can detect flames, classify burning materials in real time using deep learning, and autonomously select the optimal extinguishing agents. Equipped with onboard sensors and a closed-loop vision–actuation system, the robot provides live updates to control centers, enhancing firefighting efficiency and safety by reducing human exposure to hazardous conditions. In addition to the firefighting robot, PolyU was recognized for two healthcare innovations: the Powered Rehab Skateboard, a lightweight, portable device aiding stroke patients in upper limb rehabilitation, and the FattaLab Fatty Liver Diagnostic Device, the world’s first handheld smart system for rapid fatty liver screening with medical-grade accuracy. These awards underscore PolyU’s commitment to impactful research and innovation