Disney's Paraswift Can Safely Jump from Almost Any Point
Omar Yusuf — September 12, 2011 — Tech
References: geeky-gadgets & dvice
Paraswift is the latest invention from Disney (surprisingly, they help fund robotics research) and has been billed as a "BASE jumping robot."
For the uninitiated, BASE jumping is an activity that involves jumping from fixed objects like antennae, cliffs or bridges and safely landing via parachute. It may sound like a foolhardy endeavor, but jumpers insist that the rush is an incomparable high or adrenaline and excitement. Proving that robots can be just as foolish as human beings, the Paraswift is capable of vaulting from almost any height and landing without incident. The autonomous robot uses a system of low pressure vacuums in order to climb smooth surfaces and eventually tumble back toward earth.
For the time being, testing has been limited to 30-feet jumps, although I'm confident that Paraswift could jump from the Empire State Building after seeing the promotional footage.
For the uninitiated, BASE jumping is an activity that involves jumping from fixed objects like antennae, cliffs or bridges and safely landing via parachute. It may sound like a foolhardy endeavor, but jumpers insist that the rush is an incomparable high or adrenaline and excitement. Proving that robots can be just as foolish as human beings, the Paraswift is capable of vaulting from almost any height and landing without incident. The autonomous robot uses a system of low pressure vacuums in order to climb smooth surfaces and eventually tumble back toward earth.
For the time being, testing has been limited to 30-feet jumps, although I'm confident that Paraswift could jump from the Empire State Building after seeing the promotional footage.
Trend Themes
1. Autonomous BASE Jumping - Opportunity for developing autonomous robots capable of safely jumping from fixed objects and landing via parachute.
2. Low Pressure Vacuum Systems - Opportunity for creating innovative low pressure vacuum systems that enable robots to climb smooth surfaces and descend safely.
3. Adrenaline-seeking Robotics - Opportunity to explore the development of robots capable of experiencing and replicating the thrill and excitement of adrenaline-fueled activities like BASE jumping.
Industry Implications
1. Robotics - Disruptive innovation opportunity for the robotics industry to create new applications and technologies for BASE jumping robots.
2. Vacuum Technology - Opportunity for the vacuum technology industry to develop advanced low pressure vacuum systems for various applications such as climbing smooth surfaces in robotics.
3. Entertainment and Theme Parks - Potential opportunity for the entertainment and theme park industry to incorporate BASE jumping robots as thrilling attractions, offering unique experiences to visitors.
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