Happy Friday – Facial-Recognition Cat Feeding Machine (via Sky News)

Facial-Recognition Cat Feeding Machine Launched

A new feeding device will only dispense a set amount of food and water when it recognises the cat, using an on-board computer.

Cat

A cat feeding machine which uses facial-recognition technology to stop greedy felines stealing each other’s food has been unveiled. Taiwan-based developer Mu-Chi Sung said his cat almost died after developing pancreatitis. He did not realise it was not eating while he was at work, because his other cats were eating the spare food. It gave him the idea of creating a cat feeder with facial recognition, which would dispense a set amount of food after recognising each cat.

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The device connects to a companion app

More than $25,000 (£14,590) has already been raised on Crowdfunding site Indiegogo, towards a $100,000 (£58,000) target to bring the Bistro Smart Feeder to market. It has a food bowl and a water dish that is inset inside a feeding machine. Cats have to place their heads inside the feeder to eat and drink – but food and water is only dispensed if their faces are recognised by the on-board computer.

Cat
The cat must place its head into the device

The platform leading up to the feeder acts as a scale, sending weight information through to a companion smartphone app so owners can monitor their pets’ health. The amount of food and water the cat takes is also monitored. Mr Sung said: “I have been raising so many cats and some passed away, but usually we didn’t notice that they were sick. “I should have noticed earlier, because it’s often too late when they show serious symptoms.” The product is expected to retail for $249 (£145).

Via Sky News : click here to view the original post