A startup designs the first bionic cat – Geeko
If the first robot dog was born in the late 90s with Aibo, it took two decades to see the first domestic robotic cat appear. MarsCat is the creation of a Chinese company specializing in the
robotics, Elephant Robotics.
This bionic feline has a artificial intelligence which allows him to reproduce the behavior of a cat. Sensitive to the touch, the MarsCat reacts to sensory stimuli thanks to various sensors. Interactive, the bionic cat responds to different interactions, as well as to certain predefined commands, in particular “sit”, “come here”, etc. And for more realism, the MarsCat can also decide not to respond to an order, just to stick to reality.
The robotic cat has image recognition and perceives distances. It is therefore completely autonomous and can be walked without the help of a human. Equipped with “vocal cords”, the robot can meow in different ways depending on the situation.
As for real felines, the MarsCat has its own personality which will be shaped as it interacts with its owners. He can also play with a ball or a feather, like a real cat.
A Kickstarter has been launched
Elephant Robotics opted for the option Kickstarter to develop your cat 2.0. Within a few days, the goal of 20,000 dollars was reached and greatly exceeded. At the time of writing, the MarsCat had already reached $ 69,000.
Opensource, it can also be programmed to perform new actions. In addition to his personality and behavior, the cat can be physically shaped. Thus, buyers can choose the color of his “coat”, his eyes, his collar and his nose.
For now, people interested in this chat 2.0 can support the project for just over $ 600. They will receive their bionic cat next March. After which, it will cost $ 1,299 to acquire the MarsCat.
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