Robot Dog Testing in Medical Center Construction

At the forefront of innovation, the multifunctional medical center under construction at the Skolkovo Innovation Center serves as a testing ground for cutting-edge technology, including the use of a robot dog for project oversight. During a press tour of the Moscow Medical Cluster's facilities, Rafik Zagrutdinov, head of the Moscow City Construction Department, unveiled the deployment of this robotic assistant.

Zagrutdinov highlighted the center's role as a pilot site for exploring new technologies, emphasizing Russia's adoption of Building Information Modeling (BIM) methodologies. The construction site leverages industrial robots capable of generating point clouds within the building, which are then compared with the BIM model to identify any deviations from the original design. This advanced robotic system ensures precise monitoring of construction progress and adherence to safety protocols.

The robot dog, equipped with versatile capabilities, can be operated remotely or programmed to navigate predefined points autonomously. Previously, human operators utilized specialized equipment to perform similar tasks, but the introduction of robotic assistance marks a significant advancement in construction methodologies.

While the experiment is in its early stages, Zagrutdinov expressed optimism about the potential impact of the robot dog on construction practices. The ongoing testing phase throughout 2022 will evaluate the effectiveness of this innovative solution, with the possibility of expanding its use to other construction projects in the future.

The integration of robotic assistants like the dog-shaped apparatus signifies a paradigm shift in the construction industry, particularly for projects characterized by complex engineering requirements and large-scale infrastructure. As technology continues to evolve, these robotic companions are poised to play a vital role in enhancing efficiency, safety, and productivity across construction sites worldwide.