I saw an interesting article in Sunshine Coast News last week.
It read in part: “University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC) students have taught robodogs new tricks, developing a voice-command app that allows the machines to herd sheep under the direction of a human handler.
“The upgraded Unitree Go2 robodogs will make their public debut alongside livestock at the Ekka from August 8-16, bringing a Jetsons-style glimpse of the future to Queensland’s largest agricultural show.”
Wow! George Jetson would be so proud – although the working dog union may not be too happy about a whole bunch of kelpies and border collies out of work.
Driverless cars, drone transport and the like I can get me head around, but robodogs rounding up sheep and possibly cattle (so blue heelers will be at the dole office as well) I am struggling to compute.
It certainly feels next level. Before long, robodogs may become companion animals, too. So, will people still complain about them in cafes and restaurants?
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Will it be the motor noise that offends diners or the pitter patter of little carbon feet?
Maybe people will be outraged about the possibility of them blowing up. I am sure those who love being outraged and offended would find something to complain about.
Then, of course, there is the possibility (just like e-bikes) that some genius will find a way to soup them up so they go twice as fast.
All of a sudden, we will have out-of-control dogs racing around, causing chaos.
That may be the downside to what looks like some brilliant technology, but I am sure there would be one bunch of folks very happy if there was an influx of robodogs in suburbia: Sunshine Coast Council.
No dog poo to worry about unless the things start pooing batteries.
I guess they can be programmed not to chase migratory birds.
And no more expensive dog bowls and public enclosures – that should make the authorities happy.
But there is one flaw. They will be voice controlled, which is the problem now. Irresponsible dog owners spoil it for the rest.
So, well done to UniSC. I like the idea for working dogs but if I was a farmer, the companionship thing will be the missing bit.
I know it would be for me. Hey, maybe they could try their technology on politicians?
Ashley Robinson is Mets Caloundra CEO, chairman of Thunder Netball and a lifetime Sunshine Coast resident.
