A Dignity Health hospital in California has deployed a security robot and is attempting to give the machine a human touch by involving the community in naming it.
Bakersfield Memorial Hospital's slogan may be "Hello Humankindness," but there's nothing human—or even alive—about the California hospital's newest security team member.
In September, the hospital introduced a white, egg-shaped robot to its security force in order to better monitor its emergency room parking lot. The robot has sensors and cameras to help it navigate, as well a security button that can be pressed to alert human officers.
"It's here for three reasons: safety, security, and surveillance," Ken Keller, Bakersfield's chief operating office, told local media.
Keller said that the robot will perform simple tasks, thus freeing up security guards' time. After a software upgrade, people will be able to give the robot commands in English and Spanish.
"It's here to augment our security officers and give them the ability to be more hands on with patients and families," he said.
Bakersfield is one of four Dignity Health hospitals to deploy a security robot for a test period.
While the robot may seem at odds with Bakersfield's "humankindness" brand, marketers are attempting to give the machine a human touch by getting the community involved in naming it.
On September 21, the Bakersfield Facebook account posted a 20-second video introducing the robot to its followers. "Cameras? Check. Sensors? Check. Name? Nope. We need your help – submit your clever name idea for Memorial Hospital's new security robot in the comments," the post said.
The video shows the robot rolling through the parking lot, greeting a passing car with a staticky "good afternoon."
The piece has been viewed nearly 2,000 times and received more than 70 comments, most of which were suggested names, including "Digity," "DH-Droid," and "Security Sam." One commenter suggested they name the robot Walter after a security guard who recently retired.
Marketers are also inviting patients, staff, and community members to submit their name ideas on their website.