Throwflame Unveils the Thermonator: A Flamethrower-Equipped Robotic Quadruped
Specifications and Features
The wait is over for those eager to acquire Throwflame’s Thermonator, the pioneering flamethrower-wielding robotic dog. This Ohio-based company has officially launched the pre-order for this unique creation, priced at $9,420. The Thermonator boasts an ARC flamethrower mounted on its back, compatible with both gasoline and napalm fuel. Its features include a one-hour battery life, a 30-foot flame projection range, and remote control via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth using a smartphone app.
The Thermonator also incorporates a Lidar sensor for mapping and obstacle avoidance, laser sighting, and first-person-view navigation through an onboard camera. The robotic platform appears to be a modified version of the Unitree Go2 quadruped, which alone retails for $1,600 in its base configuration.
Potential Applications and Concerns
Throwflame suggests several potential applications for the Thermonator, including wildfire control and prevention, agricultural management, ecological conservation, snow and ice removal, and entertainment and special effects. However, the primary function of the robot is to set objects ablaze in various real-world scenarios.
In 2018, Elon Musk’s Boring Company made headlines by offering a flamethrower that reportedly sold 10,000 units within 48 hours. This sparked controversy due to the potential for flamethrowers to be used as weapons or accidentally start wildfires.
Legal Considerations and Safety Concerns
Flamethrowers are not specifically regulated in 48 US states, although general product liability and criminal laws may still apply to their use and sale. The federal government does not classify them as firearms. However, Maryland requires a Federal Firearms License to own a flamethrower, and California limits the range of flamethrowers to 10 feet.
It is crucial to acknowledge that flamethrowers can easily ignite objects and cause harm to individuals if not used responsibly. As such, the Thermonator may not be the most suitable gift for children this holiday season.
Originally reported on Ars Technica.
1 Comment
Who knew the future meant unleashing fiery robot dogs on the world, huh?