Boston Dynamics, robots now collaborate for a common purpose

Boston Dynamics has shown the ability of its robots to solve problems collaboratively within a video lasting less than a minute. Inside we see two SpotMini, ” four-legged ” robots, working together to carry out a common goal: to open a door and overcome both. SpotMini is an 11 kilogram robot capable of collecting and manipulating objects using various motion and perception sensors. 

In the video, there are two: the first SpotMini approaches a door and seems to scan it before seeking help. So it comes another similar robot, but with a mechanical arm that gives him the ability to open the door: let the first robot pass and then cross it with total ease. It is the first time that Boston Dynamics shows its creations collaborating for a common purpose, for a video of only 45 seconds that undoubtedly unleashes conflicting feelings in us ” human “.

The video is fascinating, with the technology of the company that independently carries out an assignment typically attributable to men; but on the other, it opens up to discussions that are scary. Just as the velociraptors discovered how to open the doors to hunt men in Jurassic Park, we cannot help but think that the technologies of Boston Dynamics have the right credentials to turn against one day against their masters. At the moment, the SpotMini are more than good.

Robot teams such as those in the video can have extremely varied uses in ” real ” situations: they can help in search and rescue missions after natural disasters occur, look for survivors under the rubble, incessantly bring food or other assets to those who need it, and can be used in all those situations that are considered too dangerous for humans.