Mechanical Dog Robot (PBR)

Over the years, robot pets have become more realistic and capable of mimicking human interaction. From cuddly seals to creepy cops, but recently at AT&T Discovery District in Dallas we encountered an entirely new kind of quadruped: a fully functional AI-powered robotic dog that can walk, run, and navigate in almost any environment.

Last year, Boston Dynamics' Spot became an internet sensation thanks to its canine-inspired design. The robot features magnetic feet which make climbing effortless, as well as being able to navigate curbs and stairs with ease.

Recently, several robot dogs have been tested in public, including one deployed by the NYPD. Its presence sparked a strong reaction on social media and among critics who worried it would reduce police officers' opportunities for human interaction.

Another controversial robot dog was Digidog, which inspired a dystopian episode of Black Mirror. As it walked alongside police on the streets of the Bronx, many questioned whether robots could truly replace human detectives and responders.

Some people have an affectionate or hostile relationship with robots, while others view them as a great resource for community outreach and other tasks. But there are various social issues at play here too - like privacy concerns and costs.

In an effort to better comprehend how robots impact human reactions, researchers at UC Berkeley have trained a robotic dog to walk using reinforcement learning - an AI technique that instructs algorithms by rewarding them for performing specific actions. This allows the robot to practice in a simulated setting before trying its skills in the real world.

3d-model with PBR-textures.