Scientists at the University of Plymouth have unveiled ‘Ellie,’ a state-of-the-art robotic dog designed to revolutionize soil analysis and environmental monitoring. Equipped with advanced sensors, Ellie can scale heights up to 16 feet in just one second and detect chemicals in the soil, providing invaluable data for agriculture and ecological studies.
The £25,000 technology embedded in Ellie includes 3D depth sensors and stereo cameras, allowing it to navigate diverse terrains while being remotely controlled. Future enhancements aim to incorporate gamma ray spectroscopy and full infrared features, further expanding its analytical capabilities.|
Robotics developer Jake Gibson Shaw-Sutton envisions Ellie as a shared resource among farmers, facilitating tasks such as biodiversity measurement using AI tools. The team is also developing a Robotic Traction Unit to promote sustainable farming practices.​
Ellie’s innovative design and functionality represent a significant advancement in agricultural technology, offering a practical solution for efficient soil analysis and environmental conservation. This robotic assistant exemplifies the integration of robotics and AI in addressing real-world challenges.