We’ve had one of our coldest winters yet, and although most of us have the ability to bundle up, our outside animal friends do not. Now, Baidu, known for its search engine, is making a difference in the feline world.
The Chinese internet company has released an AI-powered smart cat shelter created by Wan Xi, one of the company’s engineers.
“At first, I just wanted to provide them with a warm place in winter with food and water that is not frozen,” Xi told state media.
According to Baidu’s blog post, what’s unique about the use of this specific AI is the camera at the front of the shelter’s door. As a cat navigates through the door, the shelter’s camera can accurately identify 174 different cat breeds. It lets cats come and go as they please, but if a dog comes running up to the shelter, the door won’t budge. Xi said although multiple cats can fit inside the shelter, the camera can detect if a different animal, such as a dog, is attempting to get into the shelter and the door won’t open.
Another feature is the shelter can detect if a cat is sick by identifying four common cat diseases, such as inflammation, skin problems, and physical trauma. If a cat has been identified as needing extra attention, volunteers are informed and can come to collect the cat.
Because Beijing has extremely cold winters, Xi wanted to create a space for outside cats to gather where water wasn’t frozen. The shelter is climate-controlled to remain at 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, an air system monitors the oxygen and carbon dioxide levels to ensure the space is well ventilated.
Currently, it doesn’t seem Baidu is planning on expanding this project, but for now it’s a good use of AI for our feline friends.
Filed Under: Product design
