When it comes to advances in technologies that can aid the visually impaired, many developers are incorporating Microsoft's Kinect as the common denominator of many of these emerging devices.
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The Japanese company NSK is no exception. Along with the University of Electro-Communications, they've designed a robotic guide dog that utilizes a Kinect sensor to visualize its environment and navigate its owner around, up and over obstacles. On flat surfaces, the four-legged robo-pooch glides along on wheels instead of paws. Using its hind legs, the computerized canine can even climb up and down stairs. Its wheel-paws also contain sensors that alert its owner of obstacles.
Putting pressure on the device's handle tells the robotic guide to lead the way. A synthetic, female voice informs the user of his or her environment.
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The device is still in the research and development phase, but future versions of the robotic guide dog will include voice commands and GPS for more precise navigation.
If you find yourself in Tokyo this week, stop by the International Robot Exhibition 2011, where the robo-dog will be on display until Nov. 12.
[Via Inhabitat]
Image: NSK
Tags: Animals, Autonomous Robots, Biomimetics, Computer Software, Computers
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