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Robodog
SOPA IMAGES/LIGHTROCKET VIA GETTY IMAGES
This dog-like robot can climb stairs, jump, and even play fetch. But it’s not a replacement for your household pet. The robot, named Spot, was built to work. Engineers at the company Boston Dynamics designed Spot to perform jobs that can be difficult or dangerous for people. The 0.8 meter (2.6 foot)-tall machine has a robotic arm it can use to open doors, and built-in devices to detect objects. “Spot can use its sensors to measure progress on construction sites and do tests in factories to make sure everything is safe,” says Boston Dynamics founder Marc Raibert.
Spot can move somewhat autonomously, adjusting to obstacles and terrain on its own as a human operator directs where the robot goes.
A claw mounted on Spot’s “head” allows the robot to grasp objects.
Sensors, including a camera that provides a 360-degree view, help the robot survey its environment.
Spot has four jointed legs that allow it to climb, crawl, walk, and trot at up to 1.6 meters (5.2 feet) per second.
A person manipulates Spot using a video game-style controller.
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