Jan 28 2008Robot Spots Lost Shoppers, Scares Them
Robovie the robot was designed to monitor crowds in shopping areas and assist anyone who appears lost. He can monitor approximately 1,000 square feet of space at once.
Relying on data from 16 cameras, 6 laser range finders and 9 RFID tag readers installed in and around the area, the robot was able to watch up to 20 people at a time, pinpoint their locations to within a few centimeters, and classify each individual’s behavior into one of 10 categories (waiting, wandering, walking fast, running, etc.).
If you fall into the "disoriented" category, which likely includes "drunk" and "stumbling" then the robot approaches you and asks "Are you lost?" If you answer yes he'll point and explain the directions to your destination. If no then he proceeds to recommend shops and eateries in the area. Or, if you're like me you won't answer anything. You'll be too frightened of the scary little bastard approaching that you'll either turn and run or kick him until he blows up.
Robovie droid helps lost shoppers [pinktentacle]
Thanks to the always beautifully beautiful Melissa, who is never lost, for the tip
Reader Comments
1. Adam - January 28, 2008 9:42 AM
He looks lean. Dunno how he was smoking it though without a mouth.
2. Iszi - January 28, 2008 10:30 AM
Those eyes...
That blank, yet curious stare...
Are we sure that's not just Johnny 5 in a Haloween costume?
3. Mr. Anderson - January 28, 2008 10:33 AM
On the second photo to the right: He looks like he's looking at you saying "What are YOU looking at?!"
He also looks like a mix between DeVito as "The Penguin" and that weird robot in "Short Circuit".
4. JustBuzzed - January 28, 2008 11:09 AM
So if I'm wasted stumbling around, he can help me find the next bar. I need him outside every bar I go to . If he can give me a ride home, it would be like the "My Buddy" but for adults.
http://theunsoberlife.com
5. guate6 - January 28, 2008 11:38 AM
#3, that robot's name is Johnny 5 (from Short Circuit).
Ok so this robot can do what a human in an information station do: look at cameras, help people with directions, analyze whether HUNDREDS (not only 20) people are walking or screaming bloody murder, and a human works for a lot less than this robot costs...I see the whole "if you've got it flaunt it" policy this mall has, but it hardly seems cost effective.
On another note, the picture on the right, almost seems as though with his blank stare, he's saying very calmly "that would be a very bad idea Dave."
6. Mysterious M - January 28, 2008 12:18 PM
His nose looks like a penis.
7. Claire - January 28, 2008 3:27 PM
wouldn't people just kick it over lol?
8. lol - January 28, 2008 4:57 PM
SOURCE NOT WORKING!!
9. Mvivanc - May 27, 2008 12:44 PM
Hahaha!! i'll do the same!! won't answer and run the hell out crying loud
10. louis vuitton - September 29, 2009 8:48 AM
SOURCE NOT WORKING!!
11. online pharmacy - November 4, 2009 6:08 PM
Ilove content.What you said is true. Thanks!