It’s time to quit watching sci-fi thrillers.
Hyundai made an unexpected move in the last month of 2020. The automaker bought Boston Dynamics, which is well-known for its robotics. SoftBank Group received the remaining 20% of the controlling stake, which was acquired by the Korean marque.
Now, fast forward to July last year, Hyundai presented its dancing robot dog, along with its global brand ambassador, and worldwide music phenomenon BTS. But, we all know that the acquisition Boston Dynamics is not for entertainment.
It is now Hyundai Shows off the Factory Safety Service Robot, its first-born with Boston Dynamics. It was created to support site safety at Kia’s South Korean facility. You might remember something if you have been watching a lot of sci fi thrillers, especially Black Mirror‘s Metalhead.
The robot dog is named the Robot after Boston Dynamics’ quadruped robot Spot. The technology includes applied artificial intelligence (AI), teleoperation technologies and computing payload (AI Processing Service Unit). The robot can be used for many industrial tasks including people detection, fire hazards monitoring and high-temperature conditions. Hyundai has announced that the Robot will be used in South Korean Kia’s factory to support late-night security patrols as well as create a safer working environment. The Robot will also be used by Hyundai Group to evaluate its effectiveness before expanding its operations in other areas.
Dong Jin Hyun (Head of Hyundai Motor Group Robotics Laboratory) stated that smart services will continue to be developed to detect hazards at industrial sites and support safe work environments through ongoing collaborations with Boston Dynamics.