Panasonic Umoz

2022: Panasonic unveils robes for plants

In February 2022, Panasonic introduced robotic pots for plants that walk around the house and choose comfortable places. The new development of the Japanese corporation was called Umoz.

Panasonic introduced robes for plants

A robot similar to a hermit crab also resembles a miniature bonsai with a non-standard design that the creators could be inspired by the characters of Hayao Miyazaki and science fiction films. Moss grows on the presented specimen of Umoz, which is widely represented in Japan.

A special software algorithm is responsible for the behavior of the robot: numerous built-in sensors of humidity and light intensity allow the robot to constantly monitor the environment and choose the optimal location for itself in the house or office. According to the developers, with proper care, Umoz can work for several years, while the owner needs to regularly water the plant.

As noted in Panasonic, Umoz eco-robots can live quietly in private, working and public places. There are no special utilitarian functions for them by mid-February 2022. At the same time, it is not reported whether these smart pots will use not only moss, but also other plants.^[1]

It is noted that the robot was created as part of the project "Ecological World," the purpose of which is to study the possibilities of a problem-free coexistence of people with natural objects through an understanding of the environment of living beings and plants.

Most of us think of moss as something inanimate with which you can't interact, but in fact it is a living creature that adapts to the environment. Miniature Umoz robots simulate this connection or dependency. Their behavior algorithms are also programmed differently for each person. Some will move to light or moisture sources, others will move away from them. The goal is to improve people's perception of their environment and awareness of nature, "explained Takeshi Ando, director of the Aug Lab laboratory (part of Panasonic).

Notes