Date Published: 05/07/2024
First beach-cleaning robot in the world takes to the sand in Spain
This clever machine has been sweeping up the shores of Valencia, much to the delight of beachgoers
The sunny shores of Valencia, Spain are about to get even more dazzling, thanks to the introduction of a revolutionary beach cleaning robot, aptly named ‘PlatjaBot’. Mayor of Valencia, María José Catalá, recently unveiled this innovative project, highlighting the city's commitment to sustainability and its status as the first Green Capital of the Mediterranean.
PlatjaBot, also known as UMIbeach, is the brainchild of UMIbots company and represents a significant step forward in coastal conservation. This intelligent robot uses artificial intelligence (AI) to detect and remove waste from beaches, including pesky cigarette butts, plastics and other litter.
So essentially, it’s like a Roomba vacuum for the beach!
But what really sets UMIbeach apart is its autonomy; it’s the world’s first robot of its kind to operate without human control, thanks to its advanced AI vision and safety features.
Clodo González, the creator of UMIbeach, explained that the robot has a range of security measures in place. It can detect obstacles and people, even in low-visibility conditions or at night, using artificial vision. UMIbeach is also a tracked vehicle, meaning it can navigate sandy terrains with ease and collect up to 10 centimetres of soil, sifting through waste and storing it in a rear tank for disposal.
With a single charge, this impressive little robot can clean five square kilometres of beach, collecting up to 330 units of waste per square kilometre.
UMIbeach isn’t just a cleaning machine; it also has a fun side. Accompanying the robot is a video game application that gamifies the cleaning process, engaging citizens and raising awareness about sustainability. Users can even geo-position waste areas, allowing the robot to reprogram its routes and optimise its efficiency.
The introduction of PlatjaBot in Valencia marks a significant step forward in the city’s commitment to environmental protection and innovation.
So, as you relax on the golden sands of Valencia, keep an eye out for UMIbeach, the hardworking robot ensuring your beach experience is clean and green.
You might also like: WATCH—Malaga police employ a robot dog to help patrol the streets
Image: Ayuntamiento de Valencia
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