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# Dog-Like Quadriped Robots
Boston Dynamics' SpotMini Has 3D Vision Cameras for Obstacle Avoidance

By Laura McQuarrie | Published 2017-12-08 | Tech
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/spotmini
References: [roboticstrends](http://www.roboticstrends.com/article/spotmini_robot_dog_gets_major_makeover/news?eid=399371160&bid=1926679)

[Boston Dynamics](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/workplace-robot-trials-boston-dynamics-spot-robot-ensure-equipment-efficien)' SpotMini was first introduced in 2016 and since then, it has undergone enough changes for the [engineering and robotics design company](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-boston-dynamics-atlas) to unveil "the new SpotMini."

While the first version of the SpotMini was created with an industrial body and an additional manipulator arm coming out of the top of its body, the new and improved SpotMini features a plastic-covered body encased in a yellow shell and just four legs. The new design also introduces new features, such as 3D vision cameras on the side and back of the robot for the purposes of obstacle avoidance. In terms of movement, the SpotMini robot seems to move much more organically than before, in a way that reminds of the way a real [four-legged dog](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aipowered-robot-dog) might choose to get around.

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 1.8/10
- Popularity: 9% | Activity: 37% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women
- Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X
- Top markets: North America, Asia

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [AI](https://www.trendhunter.com/ai)

## Key Themes

### Key Themes Behind This Trend

- **Dog-like Quadruped Robots:** Advancements in robotic design are leading to the creation of robots that move more organically and realistically, resembling four-legged dogs.
- **Obstacle Avoidance Vision Cameras:** 3D vision cameras are being integrated into robotic designs to improve obstacle avoidance capabilities.
- **Plastic-covered Robot Bodies:** Robotic designs are moving towards plastic-covered bodies as a way to reduce weight and increase maneuverability.

### Where This Applies

- **Robotics Industry:** Advancements in robotic design and artificial intelligence are opening up new opportunities for the automation of various industries including manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics.
- **Security Industry:** Dog-like robots can be used for security purposes, such as patrolling large areas, monitoring crowds, and identifying potential security threats.
- **Entertainment Industry:** Robotic animals can be used in the entertainment industry for a variety of applications, such as robotic pets, animatronic characters, and educational exhibits.

## Related on Trend Hunter

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- [Rugged Quadruped Robots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rugged-quadruped-robots.md)
- [Dog-Inspired Surveillance Robots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/robot-dog-concept.md)
- [Robotic Four-Legged Dogs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/robotic-fourlegged-dog.md)
- [Workplace Robot Trials](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/workplace-robot-trials-boston-dynamics-spot-robot-ensure-equipment-efficien.md)
- [Musculoskeletal Robot Dogs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/robot-dog-design.md)
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- [AI-Powered Robotic Dog Companions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/xiaomi-cyberdog-2.md)