The radio-controlled, Roomba-shaped Ferret under-vehicle inspection robot can transmit real-time video images to an operator up to 300 meters away. (Source: General Robotics)
Very cool. Should be a staple for airport security, patrolling parking lots and other public venues if it really is effective. That would definitely ensure a higher level of safety.
It looks a lot like an iRobot in terms of its aesthetic design. Not only are these robots perfect for scouting under cars and through parking lots, but what about malls, schools, or other public venues where there are long stretches of terrain to patrol.
Great idea! The new airport skirt cam! Fun for parties too. They're expected to be on the wish list of every college dorm security guard. Get your orders in early.
I was impressed at what the digital CMOS sensor-based camera made by the parent company can do: it's got a 360-degree panoramic view. But that's not used in the Ferret--that one is a CCD sensor-based camera with (apparently) a 90-degree angle, which is still pretty wide.
Chuck, iRobot makes the Roomba for vacuuming, with a very similar shape, hence my reference. There are various small robots that do surveillance, but I don't recall any of them shaped like the Roomba or the Ferret. Let us know if you find one.
Hi Ann, In addition to vehicle security surveillance, I see this robot being useful for mobile auto mechanics who need to check the underbody of an automobile for leaks, or holes caused by rust in mufflers. What a great tool as well as article! Speaking of iRobot, here's the link to their Creater robot kit for any interested in tinkering with mobile robots. http://store.irobot.com/family/index.jsp?categoryId=2591511&s=A-ProductAge
mrdon, that sounds like a really good app for this robot. But I wonder how much it costs. Some quick Googling didn't turn up any prices for the Ferret, but the much more capable 360-degree Panoscan cameras made by General Robotics' parent company go for about $40,000 each.
$40,000! Wow, Ann. That's a lot if it's like the Ferret. The Ferret looks fairly simple, technolgy wise. Can't imagine the parts that go into it cost more than a few hundred dollars.
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