Introducing ALF

TARGET Center’s Education Program Manager, Paul Lloyd, interacts with attendees remotely at a booth in the USDA Whitten Patio.

USDA’s TARGET Center had a unique challenge: serving 90,000 potential customers across the country with a team of seven and an infrequent ability to travel. At the same time, TARGET Center was looking for a new technology to improve access for individuals with mobility disabilities. A remote presence robot from Double Robotics, nicknamed ALF (Accessible Life Form), was the answer.

ALF is controlled by an iPad with the view from the robot on the screen.

ALF is controlled remotely from anywhere with an internet connection by using an iPad or computer. The ‘driver’ can move the robot around, raise and lower it’s height, and communicate in real-time through video and audio. The ‘head’ of the robot on the other end is also an iPad. ALF can be shipped anywhere in the country.

For a sneak peak at ALF’s capability, look back at ALF’s visit to the White House, as chronicled by DisMentors Coalition. The remote presence technology was so popular and useful supporting Lights! Camera! Action! 2.0 that ALF was invited out again for round 2 at Galludet University in January.

Derek Shields and Lights! Camera! Access! 2.0 Participants shown with ALF.

Follow our Adventures of an Accessible Life Form publication to keep up with ALF as it travels around the country serving USDA customers and visiting partners. ALF’s next trip is to Minneapolis, Minnesota on March 23rd, 2017.

Start Your TARGET Experience and request ALF at your event