Greetings Folks,

In a previous post, I highlighted a robot that’s being developed in Tokyo, Japan. Well, I recently came across another company that is manufacturing robots here in the United States. And I had to spotlight it.

Boston Dynamics

Boston Dynamics is a robotics company that began as a spin-off from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, developing robots that ran and maneuvered like animals. They currently combine “the principles of dynamic control and balance with sophisticated mechanical designs, cutting-edge electronics, and software for perception, navigation, and intelligence.” The Boston Dynamics team consists of an extraordinary group of engineers and scientists who are committed to building machines that will break boundaries and work in the real world. So far, they’ve developed nine robots: Handle, SpotMini, Atlas, Spot, LS3, WildCat, BigDog, SandFlea, and RHex.

The robot that stood out to me the most was SpotMini. Built very similar to a canine, SpotMini is a four-legged robot that handles objects, climbs stairs, and operates in offices, homes, and outdoors. It weighs 25 kg and can operate for about 90 minutes on an all-electric charge. SpotMini’s arm gives it the ability to handle objects using its 5 degree-of-freedom and beefed up perception sensors; the sensor suite includes stereo cameras, depth cameras, an IMU, and position/force sensors in the limbs.

Take a look for yourself.

Interesting, huh.

My previous concerns and theories surrounding the need for robots still remains the same—I don’t see how this will be beneficial for human life, especially given the current condition of the planet. For more information on Boston Dynamics and their products, check out their official website. You can also stay updated by connecting with them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

Until Next Time…

(Sources)

Boston Dynamics. (n.d.). Retrieved August 24, 2018, from https://www.bostondynamics.com/