Ford Tests Quadrupedal Robots to Enhance Manufacturing Efficiency

Introduction

Ford is currently testing two advanced quadrupedal robots that resemble dogs. These robots are capable of sitting, shaking hands, rolling over, and using cameras to perform 360-degree scans. They can traverse slopes of up to 30 degrees and climb stairs for hours at a time.

Features and Technology

Weighing in at 70 pounds, these quadrupedal robots move with the agility of real dogs. Ford is utilizing these robots as part of its experimental manufacturing program, which is designed to save time, reduce costs, and enhance efficiency.

Robot Details

The first robot is known as "Fluffy," a name given by Paula Weibelhaus, the supervisor overseeing the robot. The other robot hired by Ford is named "Spot," after the original robot developed by Boston Dynamics, known for its cutting-edge robotic designs.

Testing at the Factory

Ford's testing robots can be easily identified at the "Van Dyke Transmission Plant" due to their distinctive yellow color. Equipped with five integrated cameras to recognize their surroundings, these robots can cover a distance of 5 kilometers thanks to their two-hour battery life. They will be used to scan the factory floor and assist engineers in updating the original computer-aided design.

Statements from Officials

In this context, Mark Goodrich, Ford's Digital Engineering Director, stated: "After years of designing and building factories, these facilities undergo changes that are seldom documented. However, having these robots inspect our facilities will allow us to see the current state of the factory and build a new engineering model."