Robots Aid Students in Crossing Brussels-Area Streets
Why this is here: The robots collaborated during the test, with the humanoid unit communicating instructions and the robotic dog physically guiding the students across the crosswalk.
Humanoid and canine robots assisted elementary school students in safely crossing a street in Asse, Belgium during a real-world test. Researchers from the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology developed the robots to improve pedestrian safety. The robots work together to monitor traffic and guide children across crosswalks.
The humanoid robot, ARI, communicated with students in Dutch. It displayed the word “GO” when it was safe to cross. A robotic dog, Spot, then escorted the children across the street and signaled when they reached the other side.
Professor Alexey Vinel stated this was the first test of the robots in a school environment. Vinel believes robots can assist in areas lacking adult crossing guards.
He anticipates potential deployment in schools within one or two years. One student reported feeling slightly frightened by the robot’s moving eyes.