Posted on 02/13/2005 6:26:13 PM PST by sittnick
A large black ball, originally designed by Swedish scientists for use on Mars, could be the latest weapon in the war against burglars.
Telegraph Financial Services & Reader Guides
The device, developed at the University of Uppsala, acts as a high-tech security guard capable of detecting an intruder thanks to either radar or infra-red sensors. Once alerted, it can summon help, sound an alarm or pursue the intruders, taking pictures.
It is capable of travelling at 20mph, somewhat faster than a human being. Even worse for intruders, the robot ball can still give chase over mud, snow and water.
The ball relies on an internal pendulum to control its motion which, when shifted, changes the centre of gravity and starts it rolling.
(Excerpt) Read more at telegraph.co.uk ...
I guess if you want to burglarize then you better be .....ON THE BALL! (ha! ha!)
"While we're on the subject, why DID you resign, Number 6? Mmmm?"
We. want. INFORMATION!
GMTA. First thing I thought of too, when I read the title.
Um, somewhat faster than some human beings. And for how long do they assume this human being maintains that speed?
Interesting article.
Looks like a G'ould projector. "Mmm...G'ould TV..."
BOYYY!!!
First thing that "popped into my head, too!
The burglars will probably steal the ball
Boyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy!
Chase ... Schmase! Arm that ball with a 45 ACP and give it an '00' rating.
Just damn.
If you want on the list, FReepmail me. This IS a high-volume PING list...
I was thinking the same thing. What, they aren't going to pick it up and heave it over a wall or lock it in a closet? The thing can't be any smarter than your average rock.
But here is a VERY funny comment from one of the Tory MP's Patrick Mercer, who is campaigning to give people greater rights to defend their property against burglars:
"It would be interesting to see whether the ball had used grossly disproportionate force or whether it would be deemed reasonable."
It would certainly give new meaning to the phrase "balling some chick."
And I'm trying not to put forth the idea of balling someone out...but I can't stop myself.
Worst of all is the idea that the Swedish might discover having a ball isn't as fun as they thought.
Well, if I had been chased by a ball, I would swear off drinking for years...
******shudder!*******
I'll never forget the voice of "The Tall Man", Angus Scrimm!
Was that the best low-budget horror flick ever or what?
The giant flying bug was a riot!
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