Ackerman, Evan. “Hyundai Motor Group Introduces Two New Robots.” IEEE Spectrum: Technology, Engineering, and Science News, IEEE, 11 Feb. 2021, 19:00 GMT, spectrum.ieee.org/automaton/robotics/industrial-robots/hyundai-boston-dynamics-new-robots.
Article title:
Hyundai Motor Group Introduces Two New Robots
Video: HyundaiUSA
My summary of the article:
After quite a while after acquiring Boston Dynamics, Hyundai Motor Group has released two new robot models, the first of them being "DAL-e", a robot equipped with state-of-the-art artificial intelligence technology for recognizing faces and automatic communication. DAL-e mainly performs the task of providing automated customer services in car centers. This, however, is not a 'new' technology. There have been many robots like DAL-e that basically serves for the same role, such as "Pepper". The other robot released by Hyundai Motor Group, TIGER (which stands for Transforming Intelligent Ground Excursion Robot), is more interesting.
TIGER, evident from the word 'transforming' in its name, is basically a transforming vehicle, its purpose as for now being supplying resources in harsh environments. There are mainly three modes that TIGER could be in. The first is the basic mode, whereby the 'legs' that are attached from the main body to each of the wheels are contracted such that the wheels are fixed in place. This mode is most effective in quick transport on flat ground. The second is the legged mode, whereby the legs are stretched from the main body to the wheels. This enables TIGER to travel through rough, irregular structures including staircases. The final is the wing mode, whereby a quadcopter module links with TIGER, enabling it to fly. This enables TIGER to reach places that are otherwise impossible to go to. However, since TIGER operates via a very complex system and has a specific use, it would be very difficult for HMG to commercialize TIGER.
My response to the article:
I disagree with Ackerman's comment on TIGER that Hyundai Motor Group would find it difficult to commercialize TIGER. Indeed, TIGER will not appeal to the vast majority of normal people. However, this would not be the case if we turn our eyes to government organizations such as the firefighting department, lifesaving department, or the military. TIGER is one of the most – if not the most – versatile robot in the world. The fact that TIGER could travel through any obstacle with ease would make it a very appealing item to such government departments where saving lives or obtaining information in dangerous areas is a crucial part.
Generally, I was very surprised by both robots that Hyundai made. Prior to reading this article, I thought Hyundai Motor Group was purely a car manufacturing company. In other words, I thought that all Hyundai did was making cars. As a South Korean, seeing more than half of all cars in the streets being that made by Hyundai, I always thought Hyundai would generate more than enough revenue just from selling cars. These new works done by Hyundai suggests to me that Hyundai is an evolving company that does not remain in their comfort zone but accepts new challenges. Thus, with an element of national pride, I am genuinely excited for Hyundai and their accomplishments that are yet to come.
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