A robotic police dog named 'Roscoe' created by Boston Dynamics took a bullet and helped avert a fatal shooting, police say

Business Insider · 1y ago

A robotic police dog named 'Roscoe' created by Boston Dynamics took a bullet and helped avert a fatal shooting, police say

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State troopers in Massachusetts used a robot developed by Boston Dynamics, named "Roscoe," to help apprehend a suspect who had shot at police. The suspect knocked down the four-legged robot and shot it three times before opening fire on other bomb-disarming robots outside. Eventually, tear gas was used to capture the suspect. The incident highlighted the benefits of using mobile robots in dangerous situations, according to the police. However, the use of robot "dogs" by law enforcement has faced criticism from those who consider them overpriced and ineffective. Boston Dynamics stated that this was the first time one of their robot dogs had been shot.

Elon Musk was likely inspired by Boston Dynamics' humanoid robot, its founder says

Business Insider · 1y ago

Elon Musk was likely inspired by Boston Dynamics' humanoid robot, its founder says

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Elon Musk's interest in humanoid robotics, as seen in Tesla's recent announcement of its robot called Optimus, may have been influenced by Boston Dynamics' advancements in the field. Marc Raibert, the founder of Boston Dynamics, believes that Musk's ambitions are inspired by witnessing the progress of their bipedal robot, Atlas. Raibert jokingly expressed his willingness to host robot meetups between Atlas and Optimus. Boston Dynamics, known for its robot dog Spot, was acquired by Hyundai in 2021. Neither Boston Dynamics nor Tesla has provided comment on the matter.

Alaska ‘hires’ robot dog to scare animals away from airport runway

The Verge · 1y ago

Alaska ‘hires’ robot dog to scare animals away from airport runway

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The Alaskan government is utilizing a Boston Dynamics robot named "Aurora" to enhance airport safety at Fairbanks International Airport. The robot, which resembles a dog, will be used to deter migratory birds and other animals from crossing runways. The decision to trial Aurora came after alternative methods, such as using flying drones to spray repellents, were deemed too dangerous. The agency will also assess how larger animals like bears and moose respond to the robot. Aurora's panels can be replaced to resemble different predators like foxes or coyotes. The use of the robot is seen as a non-lethal and non-chemical-based way to mitigate wildlife encounters at the airport.