This android has been the center of attention since a Boston Dynamics released a prototype video 10 years ago, showing the world that it was possible for a robot to autonomously recover from ice slides, kicks, and even make its way back onto its feet from a fall.
Spot is a quadruped robot built to handle a myriad of tasks, whether it be surveying a multi-floor building, it can climb stairs, it can get back up if it falls, or even help COVID-19 patients at local hospital, and for a commercial or industrial application that can benefit from the use of a four-legged robot.
Simply pick up its Android-based controller and work using the on-screen menus and joysticks. If battery is fully charged, Spot can be piloted for up to 90 minutes at a time. Each mission first requires the operator to record a path for Spot by picking up the controller and piloting it through an environment. Boston Dynamics plans to add complete remote functionality, that could soon pilot Spot across the globe.
Spot can endure slopes up to 30 degrees. Boston Dynamics advises not operating the robot near glass, on slippery surfaces, in environments where Spot might become trapped, on moving platforms, and confined spaces. The company says that Spot's motors shouldn't be active unless it is at least two meters away from people.
Spot's usefulness can be expanded using a number of modules that Boston Dynamics calls "payloads." A new robot owner can purchase a 360-degree camera, pan-tilt-zoom camera, LiDAR, and more advanced computing power modules. Boston Dynamics plans to launch a robotic arm payload for Spot as well.
Is this robot marks the start of a dystopian future, decrease of human resources and employment, weaponry or destruction? Boston dynamics has very specific terms of service to prevent misuse. That means no weapon payloads, no intimidation tactics, and just generally following the law of do no harm.
See Spot trotting packages, delivering a pizza, it could help humans from repetitive tasks, or even take the risk of harm out of navigating dangerous terrain. Time will tell.
0 Comments