A mechanical hound that flashes lights from its eyes, shakes hands, and hip-hops like a seasoned performer was one of the star attractions at the Aero Digital Summit held on Monday at the CIAL Trade Fair and Exhibition Centre.
But don’t be fooled — it’s not a pet, it’s a Rs 19 lakh AI-powered robotic dog developed by Dubai-based Unique World Robotics.
This high-tech marvel stole the spotlight at the one-day tech expo organised as part of the launch of CIAL 2.0, a Rs 200-crore digital transformation initiative by Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL).
Spectators at the expo were treated to more impressive technological innovations, including a remote-operated vehicle (ROV) designed for bomb detection and disposal, a non-invasive body scanner, and a smart lane system for cabin baggage — recent additions to CIAL’s infrastructure.
“The battery-operated robotic dog is mainly controlled using a mobile application,” said an official of the CIAL’s new IT & communications department.
“It can be operated on a single charge for up to four hours. It’s capable of moving over 700m in a single instance and can carry a load of up to 25kg.”
The ROV, showcased by the CRPF team, is part of a newly-acquired bomb disposal system. “The threat containment vessel (TVC) is capable of taking on a blast of up to 8kg of high explosive such as TNT. The system is handled by a quick-reaction team at the airport,” said a CIAL official.
“It can be deployed upon noticing an unidentified baggage, which is suspected to be hazardous following primary inspection by the dog and the bomb detection squads. A remotely operated robot will place the bag inside the TVC, which will contain the impact if there is a blast. If not, the bag is taken to a bomb cooling pit, where the bomb can be safely detonated.”
The Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad, the official added, is equipped with a full suite of tools, including liquid explosive detectors and portable x-ray systems.
Notably, CIAL is also introducing non-invasive body scanners to streamline screening and reduce waiting time. “The main advantage is that it’s respectful of privacy,” the official explained.
Additionally, the airport is launching a smart lane system for cabin baggage. This technology automates the diversion of suspect baggage, enhancing the efficiency of the security screening process.