RDP's Four-Legged Robot Dr. Woof Introduced on International Dog Day
On a day traditionally reserved for celebrating the furry canines who provide loyalty, assistance and companionship, the Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) community is excited to unveil a unique and highly advanced kind of dog. In honour of International Dog Day, observed every August 26, RDP introduces Dr. Woof, an intelligent bionic quadruped robot that is unleashing applied research possibilities and sparking conversations.
Dr. Woof, a Unitree Go2 Pro robotic dog, is more than just a technological marvel—it is a dynamic ambassador for the future of robotics, automation and advanced manufacturing. Introduced at the Polytechnic as part of its growing innovation ecosystem, Dr. Woof blends purpose with entertainment, drawing attention to the real-world applications of cutting-edge technology in education and industry.
“Dr. Woof gives us a fun, accessible way to engage people in conversations about robotics, automation and the future of advanced manufacturing,” says Debjyoti Sen, Director, Centres for Manufacturing and Energy Innovation, Red Deer Polytechnic. “From scanning spaces to showing off autonomous navigation or supporting virtual reality safety training, it makes complex technology approachable. That curiosity often leads to valuable connections with industry partners, students and educators.”
The capabilities of Dr. Woof are vast. Outfitted with advanced sensors on the robotic dog, including a 4D LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) scanner, Dr. Woof can autonomously scan and navigate complex environments, creating 3D point cloud data and advancing innovation. Its skillset also includes the ability to access areas too dangerous for humans, such as gas leaks, demonstrating its potential in safety and industrial applications.
One of Dr. Woof’s most exciting features is its open-source platform, which allows students, faculty and staff to program its movements and functionality. This flexibility opens the door to unique education and training opportunities, empowering learners to explore robotics in a hands-on, creative way that reinforces RDP’s mission to provide future-focused, industry-relevant education.
In addition to its technical expertise, Dr. Woof can also be used for marketing purposes, attending events and assisting in facility tours while helping to showcase the innovative projects occurring at RDP’s Centre for Innovation in Manufacturing-Technology Access Centre (CIM-TAC). The on-campus CIM-TAC is a key hub of the Alberta innovation community which turns leading edge ideas into reality by collaborating with clients on creative manufacturing solutions.
As the CIM-TAC expands from 15,000 to 25,000 square feet, the centre will continue to enhance its focus on advanced manufacturing, including Industry 4.0, robotics and automation. The expansion includes space for large-scale industrial robots used in applications such as welding, machine tending (primarily using robots to load and unload materials) and high-precision automation tasks. Dr. Woof is just one part of a much larger movement at RDP—one that aims to support Alberta’s economy, help businesses de-risk technological adoption and prepare the next generation of skilled workers.
While World Dog Day is dedicated to honouring tail-wagging companions and encouraging responsible ownership, Dr. Woof offers an exciting but different twist. The robotic dog may not intuitively chase a ball without being prompted, but it will play a significant role at Red Deer Polytechnic and innovation communities across Alberta.
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