Researchers Develop Heat-Sensitive Robot ‘ANDI’ That Sweats to Cool Itself: A Step Towards Tacking Extreme Temperatures

Researchers have created a heat-sensitive robot named “ANDI” (short for Autonomous Navigational Droid with Infrared) that exhibits a unique ability to sweat profusely when exposed to hot weather, similar to humans.

This innovative robot, developed by scientists, aims to address the escalating global temperatures, especially in urban areas filled with heat and concrete.

The team of researchers at Arizona State University designed a specially engineered version of the sweating robot to measure the effects of extreme temperatures on the human body.

According to Conrad Rekajewskis, the lead investigator and professor of mechanical engineering at Arizona State University, conducting such tests on real individuals would be ethically problematic and potentially hazardous.

Rekajewski emphasizes that what is considered a “heat peak” today could become an average day in 20 years.

While similar models have used in controlled laboratory environments, this robot owned by Arizona State University is first of its kind with an internal cooling system that  allows it to be  utilized and tested outdoor.

The primary purpose of ANDI is assess the severity of human living conditions and health risks caused by  extreme temperatures.

Additionally,  researchers hope to discover new ways to alleviate heat-related issues with the assistance of this robot.

Rekajewski suggests potential solutions, such as spending additional time in shaded areas, spraying water on individuals for a certain duration, or considering specific clothing choices to mitigate the effects of extreme heat.

The overarching goal is to explore anything that could aid in coping with outdoor activities or enjoying outdoor environments.

Furthermore, ANDI, which possesses internal “organs” similar to humans, could provide valuable insights into heat-related fatalities.

Jennifer Vanos, a co-investigator and associate professor in sustainability, states that there are known cases in the San Fernando Valley (Arizona) where people have lost their lives due to  extreme heat, yet the full understanding of the causes remains elusive.

Vanos believes that ANDI could contribute to uncovering crucial information in these cases.

You can witness ANDI and its “companion” MaRty (Mobile Atmospheric Research Terrace), a portable weather station, roaming the campus of Arizona State University.