October 2024 | Issue 771 | Page(s) 4 | Gaynor Cauter
Not surprisingly, the futuristic fido has been named Rover and in his role as guard dog, he will monitor the thousands of complex systems and installations at the factory, spotting potential operational issues and even noting equipment wear-and- tear, saving his human colleagues valuable work time.
Rover, we are told, has his own ‘kennel’ at the plant, where he can take a break and top up his charge with some Pedigree power. However, unlike the real thing, this doggy doesn’t need taking for walks and he can get his own exercise, touring the works 24/7.
Designed and built by Boston Dynamics, Rover is fully automated to follow a range of preset routes and will conduct up to 24 patrols every 24 hours, seven days a week, without being distracted by noise or, more important in a canine, interesting smells.
Amongst the other skills built into this enterprising quadruped is the ability to ‘hear’ potential gas leaks that would not be detected by the human ear and he uses thermal sensors to evaluate battery temperatures quickly, allowing technicians to continue their work safely.
JLR is now looking at adding more canines to the pack as it expands the use of these robotic four-legged friends to its other sites in readiness for going fully electric.
Gaynor Cauter
Above Meet Rover – no need for Pedigree Chum or walkies where he’s concerned – just an occasional top-up from the nearest socket Below This remarkably dog-like quadruped can be programmed to inspect the plant 24/7... but can he wag his tail?