RoboK, a University of Cambridge AI spinout, has raised £1m in funding to lead an AI safety and efficiency project for ports and warehouses in the UK.

The scheme, named PALLETS, will use the firm’s platform to integrate AI with existing CCTV systems and use video monitoring as a tool for real-time hazard detection.

This same data will also be used to find operational improvements that increase efficiency.

The project has won the support of UKRI, a government funding body that directs research and innovation funding, as it aims to lower AI adoption barriers for the transport and logistics industries while improving transparency and security.

Hao Zheng, the founder and CEO of RoboK, says “PALLETS aligns perfectly with RoboK’s vision to create safer and more efficient industrial workplaces”.

“We are honoured to collaborate with key industry partners on a project of such strategic importance to the UK economy.”

PALLETS’ partners include several ports across the UK alongside the University of Essex, and industry contractors. The consortium says it seeks to tackle challenges in the logistics industry such as hazard detection and operation bottlenecks.

Mark Burton, Head of IT at the Port of Dover said: “We’re really pleased with the progress being made in our work with RoboK on the PALLETS initiative.”

“The early results are very positive, and we’ve gained some helpful insights into how computer vision might support our operational goals moving forward.”

The project will conclude at the end of March and RoboK say they hope the initiative will set new benchmarks in AI-driven safety and efficiency for the UK’s logistics and transport sectors.

Founded in 2017, RoboK is a computer vision startup that aims to transform the safety and efficiency of industrial sites in the UK. Its platform uses AI to leverage existing CCTV systems to provide insights that enhance workplace safety and streamline operations.

The firm already has a presence in several major ports and with infrastructure operators across the UK.

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