New startup looks to build robots for entertainment
Dynamic Creatures, a spinoff of Boston Dynamics, is planning to build robots for theme parks and retail spaces.
A new startup, Dynamic Creatures, aims to bring fun back to American robotics. The company, a spinoff of Boston Dynamics, is focusing on creating robots for the hospitality and entertainment sectors, specifically targeting theme parks and retail spaces. Boston Dynamics, once renowned for its viral videos featuring robots performing impressive tricks, has since been overshadowed by Chinese humanoids with their captivating dance moves.
The American market, however, has shifted towards utilizing robots for manufacturing, industrial, and defense purposes. Dynamic Creatures plans to leverage software development while utilizing hardware from Unitree, AgiBot, and Boston Dynamics. CEO Marc Theermann emphasized the need to rethink safety "from the ground up," as his ultimate goal is to create robots that people will feel comfortable hugging.
High-end entertainment deployments in robotics demand "both the artistic vision and the engineering capability to deliver a truly interactive experience." Nikolas Noel, Boston Dynamics' vice president of marketing and communications, noted that "that kind of character development just isn't our core space or area of expertise." Entertainment bots present unique engineering challenges, such as ensuring the costume doesn't obstruct vision or cause overheating.
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