It's not every day that you see a robotic dog board a train, but that became a bizarre reality for some unsuspecting commuters on the Tyne and Wear Metro Line on Tuesday.
Bernard the robotic canine caused a stir when it skipped down to catch a train at the University station in Sunderland, likely becoming the first-ever robot to do so.
The machine was built by American robotics company Boston Dynamics, and is one of the most advanced canine robots in development. It was brought to the University of Sunderland in 2021 to promote technology and the University’s Faculty of Technology at open days and outreach and recruitment events.
The robot showcases what technology can do and how it can be used in an applied way to perform tasks, reports Chronicle Live.
Professor John Murray, Academic Dean of the Faculty of Technology at the University of Sunderland, accompanied Bernard on the Metro.
He was in charge of the controls as they travelled into Newcastle to deliver a research talk on Tuesday.
He said: "I think the passengers were surprised to see a robot dog on the Metro and many were keen to have their photo taken with him. During the journey, there were many questions about what he’s for and what he can do.
"Bernard certainly agrees with their colour scheme! Normally we take him to events in the car, so it was good to get him out and about to see how we can take him around the city and meet new people.
"Bernard certainly gives his Tyne and Wear Metro experience a 10/10! The staff were all very excited to meet him and get to know more about him. He certainly caused a buzz and enjoyed the attention."
Huw Lewis, Customer Services Director at train operator Nexus, said it was "fantastic" to welcome Bernard the robot dog onto the Tyne and Wear Metro. He said the visit showed just how far robot technology has advanced.
He said: "What an amazing piece of technology that the University of Sunderland has to showcase what can be achieved with modern-day robotics.
"Bernard certainly turned a few heads when our customers spotted him heading down into the station and then along the platform to wait for a train.
"They couldn’t wait to take a few selfies, and they were really in awe of what they were seeing. There was a mixture of delight and surprise. He is welcome on Metro any time because he made a lot of people’s day, whether young or old."
"Bernard even managed made our trains show their age, and his yellow colour scheme was a nice nod to the modern new fleet of Stadler trains we are bringing into service later this year."
