Gravesend Event Highlights Future Technology with Robotic Innovations

An event celebrating innovative concepts and technology recently took place in a Kent town. The Innovation Showcase was hosted at various locations throughout Gravesend, where specialists from prominent universities presented their expertise to attendees. Among the most favored exhibits featured were the Crawlybots, which are flexible, four-wheeled robots equipped with large LED eyes capable of exhibiting animal-like traits. John McKiernan, the founder of Fourth Portal, the organization responsible for arranging the showcase, stated that the occasion offered “a glimpse into the future and how it can improve and affect everyone’s life in a positive way”. A series of complimentary events addressed topics such as robotics, artificial intelligence, and advancements in research, with the objective of highlighting the prospects accessible to residents. Andy Payne of Mechanismo Ltd, the company behind the Crawlybots’ design, expressed his desire to inspire a new generation to integrate science and art in order to develop future-applicable creations. He commented, “The main reason we go out and do these things is to bring joy, enthuse and encourage people to play and explore with new technology.” Numerous establishments situated on the High Street served as venues for events, including the Julius Caesar Restaurant, where a group from the University of Nottingham, under the direction of Dr Alan Chamberlain, conducted several discussions. Dr Chamberlain remarked, “I think it’s important to come to places such as this. It gives academics like myself the opportunity to talk to the general public to get their opinions on what’s important to them in regards to AI and robotics.” Emil Otto Munteanu, a Gravesend native pursuing computer science studies at the University of Nottingham, further stated: “It fills me with hope for the future to see the revitalisation of my town that has gone through so much, especially throughout the last few years.”” Volunteer Sabrina Ferrazza expressed her anticipation that the event would contribute to transforming North Kent into a technology hub, commenting: “I hope Gravesend gets more opportunities to innovate and grow as a community.” Ann-Marie Langley, who was visiting from Maidstone, noted that it was excellent to observe new technology in the region and “exciting to see where it can lead”. For updates, follow BBC Kent on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can be sent to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp at 08081 002250. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding our external linking policy is available.