Hengbot, a Chinese startup, has just unveiled “Sparky,” the world’s first robotic dog with skeletal limbs, capable of running and moving flexibly like a real dog thanks to Artificial Intelligence technology.
A leading American airline is preparing to launch the first flying taxi route in Chicago, while NVIDIA applies artificial intelligence across various fields. BMW plans to produce future electric vehicles in NVIDIA’s virtual space, Omniverse.
Robotic Dog Sparky. (Illustration from Robotics & Automation News)
According to an article by Robotics & Automation News on March 23, the robot dog, named “Sparky”, has been introduced by Hengbot as a “breakthrough innovation.” Sparky, “a robotic canine on a mission to blur the lines between technology and life,” aims to develop machines that are agile, lively, and warm to the touch.
Designed with skeletal limbs and advanced artificial intelligence, Sparky operates similarly to living animals. Hengbot states that the robot can run, jump, and perform skills akin to those of a real dog.
3D design graphic of AI-supported robotic dog Sparky from Hengbot. (Image from Engineering Interesting).
Unlike previous robotic dogs that have been developed, which often exhibit artificial and jerky movements, Sparky moves with “unparalleled grace and agility” thanks to its sleek design and flexible movements, closely mimicking the motions of a natural dog.
“With skeletal limbs and advanced artificial intelligence, Sparky is a ‘breakthrough innovation’ that closely resembles a living creature. It can run, jump, and perform skills similar to those of a real dog.”
Sparky moves more naturally than earlier robotic dogs due to its elegant, slender design that emulates living animals.
Sparky – The New Robotic Dog
The new robot, or robotic dog, is equipped with AI-based cameras and integrated microphones, allowing the device to interact with its surroundings and humans. The control system offers open-source programming capabilities, enabling users to easily operate it via remote control or software applications on their phones or computers.
The robotic dog Sparky is scalable, with a body completely made of metal. The robot boasts a battery life of over 50 minutes.
Blurring the Lines Between Technology and Life
The Chinese company claims that Hengbot’s goal is to create agile, flexible robots that feel comfortable to the touch, eliminating the boundary between technology and life. This initiative is embodied in the invention of “Sparky,” allowing users to enjoy the experience of pet ownership without the effort of care and nurturing.
The engineers behind the robot state that the robotic dog responds to commands, can engage in dialogues (barking), and spreads joy to everyone it meets, thanks to a special combination of technology and the playful movements of natural dogs.
The robotic dog Sparky is set to be introduced on Kickstarter soon, providing users with an opportunity to experience pet ownership in the future, according to Robotics & Automation News.
According to Hengbot’s official website, the Hengzhi Future Team, based in Guangdong Province, China, is the design unit behind Sparky. The team has over 10 years of experience in designing and manufacturing consumer robot products.
