Will Self-Propelled Stroller be a Runaway Risk? by mrosenquist

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· @mrosenquist ·
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Will Self-Propelled Stroller be a Runaway Risk?
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<p><center><img src="https://i.imgsafe.org/523645abbe.png" width="530" height="374"/></center></p>
<p>Smart devices can make lives easier, but they might also come with unforeseen risks. <a href="https://www.smartbe.co/">Smartbe.co</a> has been developing a self-propelled baby stroller that can move when jogging or walking. This Internet-of-Things (IoT) device tracks with a smartphone to stay in proximity of the owner. Product advertisements show active parents or babysitters going for a jog with the stroller moving autonomously ahead of them, keeping pace, and stopping when they stop. Seems like a wonderful addition to any new parent looking to stay active with an infant.</p>
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<h2><strong>What could possibly go wrong?</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>
<p>An automated stroller that moves ahead of the owner, with a child in its guard. As intelligent as this device may be, it cannot rival the instincts and reflexes of a parent who is constantly on-duty to protect their small children. There are unforeseen situations where parents react without thinking to keep kids out of harm’s way. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>This device provides handsfree travel for newborn babies or small children who still need the use of stroller. Strap the kid in and it will move on its own power to lead ahead of the parent. Seems wonderful but what happens as the parent approaches a busy intersection? Will it move around other pedestrians? What if it fails to stop at the curb when cars are driving by? Even if just the tires stick out a bit, it could create a safety hazard. In accidents between cars and strollers, it is the stroller and occupants who lose. &nbsp;What if a distracted cyclist is on a collision course, but you are more than hands reach away? &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>The expected response is that the parent would be paying attention and intervene. But think for a moment. This kind of automated technology allows people to do the opposite. Freeing your hands up, allows it to be holding a phone or be distracted in other ways. This could be a recipe for disaster. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>Avoid Catastrophe</strong>&nbsp;</h2>
<p>The value of technology must be tempered by the potential consequences it can bring. IoT devices are sprouting up everywhere with original capabilities. But not all connected and autonomous technology is as safe as we my want. &nbsp;In this case I recommend caution and forethought. There is nothing more precious or valuable than a newborn child. I cannot imagine risking a helpless kids with an automated self-propelled stroller. &nbsp;If anything went awry, the result could be a catastrophe. &nbsp;I choose not to trust untested technology when such high stakes are in the balance. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>For those interested, the stroller is currently on <a href="https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/smartbe-intelligent-stroller-baby-technology#/">Indiegogo</a>. &nbsp;The project became fully funded in February 2016. Top models run up to $3200 and shipping is expected to begin in April 2017. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Links:&nbsp;</h3>
<ul>
  <li>Indiegogo site: <a href="https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/smartbe-intelligent-stroller-baby-technology#/">https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/smartbe-intelligent-stroller-baby-technology#/</a>&nbsp;</li>
  <li>Product homepage and image source: <a href="https://www.smartbe.co/">https://www.smartbe.co/</a>&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
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created2017-02-16 04:04:54
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