A research team at ASU College has introduced an advanced AI powered robotic dog designed to take on real world challenges. Unlike ordinary pets this robodog is built to help in search and rescue missions and assist visually impaired individuals in navigating complex environments.
The project is led by Assistant Professor Ransalu Senanayake from the School of Computing and Augmented Intelligence. His team at the LENS Lab is focused on creating robots that combine artificial intelligence with real world adaptability. “We are building tools to solve problems that truly matter like saving lives and improving accessibility” Senanayake explained.
Equipped with cameras LiDAR voice interaction and smart sensors the robotic dog can detect obstacles move safely through disaster zones and even communicate with humans. Graduate student Eren Sadıkoğlu is training the robodog for disaster response enabling it to climb over rubble duck under barriers and adapt to unstable conditions.
Meanwhile undergraduate student Riana Chatterjee is developing AI systems that allow the robot to act as a guide for visually impaired people. Her project integrates deep learning and vision language models so the robodog can recognize objects understand surroundings and provide verbal guidance.
The initiative highlights ASU College push to advance robotics and AI for social good. From guiding those with impairments to supporting rescue teams in dangerous areas the robodog represents a new frontier in how technology can serve humanity.
Senanayake believes this research could transform everyday life. “The future of robotics is about bringing intelligent machines into communities where they can make the greatest impact” he said.
