The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office recently unveiled Spot the robot, the newest tool for its bomb and hazardous device disposal unit, writes Rachel Ravina for The Times Herald. 

The four-legged, dog-like machine was described as an “agile inspection robot” during a demonstration held at the Conshohocken training campus of the Montgomery County Department of Public Safety. The device specializes in the navigation of various terrains. It can also climb stairs, pick up objects, and open doors. 

“Spot’s remarkable capabilities will enhance our ability to conduct explosive material investigations and mitigate potential threats, ultimately keeping our communities and the deputies who serve them safe,” said Sheriff Sean Kilkenny. 

The robot has been designed by Boston Dynamics and upfitted by RADeCO. It cost $270,000, which was obtained from the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners. 

The eight members of the Montgomery County Bomb Squad will be trained to operate Spot. 

The robot, which uses a 360-degree camera system, has a lithium battery on its stomach giving a 90-minute operating time. 

In addition to its home county, the bomb squad serves a good part of the Philadelphia region, including Chester, Delaware, and Upper Bucks counties. 

Read more about Spot the robot being used as a tool for the Montgomery County Bomb Squad in The Times Herald. 

______