Dubai’s Museum of the Future has introduced a robotic canine, or ‘robodog’, that can be seen roaming the lobby, welcoming and interacting with visitors.
The four-legged robotic dog joins the museum’s growing robot community, including an AI-powered humanoid bot named Ameca. The institution is also home to Bob the robot barista, and a robotic flying penguin and jellyfish.
The robodog has 3D vision and moves using 17 joints. Per a release, the advanced robot uses machine learning and navigates the territory with unprecedented mobility for a robot.
“We are excited to welcome the latest addition to our family of intelligent robots,” said Majed Al Mansoori, deputy executive director at the Museum of the Future.
“With Ameca, the robodog, and others, the Museum of the Future enables visitors to meet some of the most cutting-edge and advanced robots and AI systems currently on the market.
“We welcome visitors to come and meet our interactive robots and learn about the technologies that are shaping our future today and tomorrow.”
Designed by US technology firm Boston Dynamics, the robodog uses 360-degree perception to map the terrain and avoid obstacles. It can also balance on uneven surfaces, navigate stairs and collect 2D and 3D information using sensors.
Robodog joins museum’s growing robot family
Ameca, the museum’s first robotic staff member, features a human-like face and a robotic body. It can interact with guests, answer their questions and provide directions. Additionally, it can make facial expressions and track movement.
In the UK, Blenheim Palace has joined forces with the Oxford Robotics Institute (ORI) and Oxford Biology to test a robot dog monitoring the impact of climate change.
The Museum of the Future is inviting people to name the robodog on social media. Those interested can suggest names via Twitter and Instagram.
Images: Museum of the Future
