Looking for an easy (and fun) way to skip your work commute but still have a presence in the office? Check out the Double 2!
The Double 2 is the newest version of the Double telepresence robot from Double Robotics. The price listed is for only the Double 2 telepresence robot, to which you would attach your tablet.
However, there is a discounted price of $3,000 for purchasing the Double 2 Full Set (which includes the Double 2 robot, Camera Kit, Audio Kit, and Charging Dock all together, resulting in a discounted overall price). Most images below (and above) are of the Double Full Set. The Double 2 includes improved lateral stability control and a new Power Drive feature so you can speed up while covering larger distances around your office or school.
The improved lateral stability control enables the robot to more easily overcome obstacles found in educational or business settings such as electrical cords or dividers commonly used when changing from tile to thin carpet.
Using the new Power Drive feature, the Double 2 can travel up to 80% faster then the default speed with the press of a button. For safety while driving the Double 2 has a zero-degree turn radius so users can turn first, in order to see what they will be driving towards, just as they would do if they were physically at the location. However, Double Robotics also includes a ‘slow reverse’ feature to help ensure a safer experience.
The Camera Kit allows for a vastly improved field of vision and HD picture-taking through a 5 MP camera with a wide-angle (150 degrees) lens that is attached to the Lightning connector on the user’s iPad (not included). In addition to increased vision, the Camera Kit enables an “Always-on-the-Floor” view so users no longer have to switch between camera views in order to see what is close to the robot. This feature allows the operator of the robot to have a better understanding of their surroundings and to nagivate more safely. The final element of note is that the Camera Kit features Adaptive HD, a new feature from Double Robotics, which prioritizes smoother video while driving the robot, and higher resolution while stationary.
Regarding the accepted devices to be attached to the Double, Double Robotics recommends using either the iPad Air or the iPad Air 2, but also note that an iPad 2 will work with some of the robot’s features.
The Double 2 can be driven using an iPad, iPhone, iPod touch, or desktop Chrome web browser.
Recommended Tablets: iPad Air or iPad Air 2.
Camera Kit: 5 MP, 150 degree wide-angle lens. Requires an iPad with a Lightning port.
Auto-Charging of the iPad from the Double 2’s battery.
Remote Users: The Double 2 can be driven using an iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch, or a Chrome web browser.
Compatible with first generation Double charging dock.
Double 2 Weight: 15 lbs (7kg) after adding an iPad.
Warranty: All repairs and shipping costs due to manufacturing defects are covered by Double Robotics for one (1) year. An extended warranty (to three (3) years) is available.
Returns and Exchanges: Handled directly by Double Robotics.
Return Policy: 30-day money-back guarantee. The Double 2 must be returned in brand-new condition and within 30 days of delivery. The customer pays for shipping the robot back to Double Robotics.
A Double Robotics video which features the experience of a physician from Bon Secours Heart and Vascular Institute. Dr. Robert Lancey illustrates how the Double provides easy access to help monitor and interact with his patients.
This Double robot video provides a case study of the Double’s use in a rural Alaska school district. The Double telepresence robot enables educators to interact with teachers and their students at schools for which they would usually need to be transported to by airplane. The Double 2 will allow them to be transported instantly.
Overview of the Double 2 robot. Quickly learn about the main features of the robot and how to operate it.
Double Robotics video guiding users through the unboxing and setup process for the Double 2 robot. It also instructs users on how to connect the iPad being used with the Double 2.
This 3.5 minute video provides driving instructions for the Double 2 telepresence robot.
In this video, users will view how the Double 2 can be controlled. Users within the video use the robot to give them a remote presence at various types of locations, without needing to even leave the comfort of their own living room.
Today I had the opportunity to test drive Double Robotics’ new Double 2 telepresence robot. Before I describe my experience of the robot itself, I need to preface that with a word of praise for Rochelle, the Double Robotics representative, who responded quickly to my initial request for a test drive, helped me set up a mutually convenient time, and then walked me through the test while cheerfully answering my many questions.
The Double 2 may be driven from one’s computer, tablet, or smart phone and relies upon a tablet to host calls on its end. I drove the robot from my PC and found the controls to be the simplest of any I’ve yet used. While, like other competitors’ robots, you can drive the Double 2 using your keyboard’s arrow keys, the only other necessary control to learn is how to adjust the robot’s height (by clicking on one of two robot icons, a shorter one for the 4′ height and a taller one for the 5′ height). It is not possible to adjust the angle of the view upward or downward, or from one side to the other without swiveling the base. This probably won’t be an issue for most users, however, and the simplicity of the controls means anyone can immediately figure out how to control the robot.
The Double 2 allows users to share screens as well as hyperlinks, take photos they can save locally, add up to five additional viewers (although only the initial user can control the robot), and keep an eye on the base of the robot via a small window in the upper left of the main viewing window. If the robot will be stationary for some time and a user wants to add extra stability, clicking the “P” icon deploys front and back kickstands to “park” the robot. The designers have included a dual charge gauge showing the separate charge percentages for the tablet and the robot; when both are fully charged, the Double 2 may be used for about 8 hours before requiring a recharge.
The robot moves slowly enough that catastrophic collisions are highly unlikely, so it does not include obstacle sensors (though future models might). If the robot does come into contact with an obstacle, it will stop moving in that direction until the user navigates away from the obstacle. Between the views offered by the regular camera and the floor camera, you shouldn’t have much difficulty avoiding obstacles.
At present, students and remote workers head the list of categories of people who use the Double 2. Rochelle mentioned that she works with about 20 young cancer patients who would be otherwise unable to attend school, but can keep up with their studies thanks to the ability to attend remotely via a robot. Similarly, with the rise of distance learning, universities are finding the robots useful for enabling online students to have “hands-on” access to professors and lab materials. As one example, Duke University uses the Double 2 to enable online nursing students to do treatment simulations. And, of course, students or workers who find themselves away from their families for long periods of time use the Double 2 to keep in touch, alleviate homesickness, and participate in family activities even when they can’t be there in person.
I found the Double 2 easy to use and have no hesitation in recommending it to any prospective users.
Pros: –Very easy to for anyone to learn how to use
–Isn’t cluttered with unnecessary features, but is nevertheless adaptable to a variety of environments and uses
–Viewing window and icons are well-laid out, and there is a nice wide angle of vision
–Floor cam, with view of robot’s base
Cons: –No means of tilting the view upward or downward
–No obstacle sensors
Test driving this robot was an absolute pleasure – the responsive, kind team, as well as Double’s great features, made my experience amazing! Controlling this robot was very easy and intuitive; there was no lag or noticeable delay in the signal. Double is reasonably fast with a speed of 1.6 mph (2.6 km/h) and very maneuverable. One drawback I could point out is that this robot doesn’t have an option to tilt the camera. However, you are able to easily raise and lower the head, allowing you to better communicate with both sitting and standing people. Double doesn’t come with a build in screen – you need to attach an iPad (2, Air or Air 2). Since a lot of people already own iPads, buying Double saves them money and using one device for multiple purposes is even eco-friendly. Also, your tablet couldn’t run out of battery while driving Double, as it’s automatically charged from the power source of the robot.
I was a bit nervous about doing a demo drive, as I knew that Double doesn’t have any sensors that stop it from bumping into walls or people and falling down stairs. This could definitely be a problem for some people, however, this robot compensates with a very effective system of overcoming obstacles. At any time, you’re able to access a camera, placed on the bottom of the head, looking down. This allows you to see what’s in your way and easily go around it. The other feature that helps you out is the lateral stability control that allows the Double to go over obstacles, often found in buildings (for example, electrical cords and dividers). When I went over a cord, I hardly even felt it, as this was no challenge for the robot.
I really liked the fact that you don’t need to install any software, in order to control Double. A feature that I found useful was the ability to screen share, as it’s a much easier to get your point across. There’s also a multi-viewer mode that allows up to 5 people to use Double, while one person’s driving it around. If you plan to stay in one place for a while, you could even park the robot, making it more stable. One disadvantage is that Double doesn’t have an auto-dock option, as it’s certainly easier to just go in the vicinity of the charger and press a button. Although, it’s more of a fun fact and not connected to the technical side of Double, this robot was featured in some popular shows like “Bones” and “Modern Family”.
So, to sum up my experience, here are the pros and cons of Double:
Pros:
+ Cheap if you already own an iPad
+ Easy obstacle avoidance
+ Great features (screen share, park, multi-viewer)
+ No software installation required
+ Tablet auto-charge
+ Lateral stability control
+ Great customer service
Cons:
– Works only with computers and iOS devices
– Can’t tilt head
– No auto-dock
We’ve had students participate in class virtually with the Double 2 robot. We’ve had a few times when we set up the robot, and then moved to another WiFi node, and had it disconnect. Other than that, it’s been great! We have our’s dressed up with a tee shirt on a hanger, and we even had one person pat it on the shoulder when they finished with their conversation and said goodbye.
I’d love to hear how people are using this to ease students with anxiety or other disabilities into the general classroom.
anonymous –
Today I had the opportunity to test drive Double Robotics’ new Double 2 telepresence robot. Before I describe my experience of the robot itself, I need to preface that with a word of praise for Rochelle, the Double Robotics representative, who responded quickly to my initial request for a test drive, helped me set up a mutually convenient time, and then walked me through the test while cheerfully answering my many questions.
The Double 2 may be driven from one’s computer, tablet, or smart phone and relies upon a tablet to host calls on its end. I drove the robot from my PC and found the controls to be the simplest of any I’ve yet used. While, like other competitors’ robots, you can drive the Double 2 using your keyboard’s arrow keys, the only other necessary control to learn is how to adjust the robot’s height (by clicking on one of two robot icons, a shorter one for the 4′ height and a taller one for the 5′ height). It is not possible to adjust the angle of the view upward or downward, or from one side to the other without swiveling the base. This probably won’t be an issue for most users, however, and the simplicity of the controls means anyone can immediately figure out how to control the robot.
The Double 2 allows users to share screens as well as hyperlinks, take photos they can save locally, add up to five additional viewers (although only the initial user can control the robot), and keep an eye on the base of the robot via a small window in the upper left of the main viewing window. If the robot will be stationary for some time and a user wants to add extra stability, clicking the “P” icon deploys front and back kickstands to “park” the robot. The designers have included a dual charge gauge showing the separate charge percentages for the tablet and the robot; when both are fully charged, the Double 2 may be used for about 8 hours before requiring a recharge.
The robot moves slowly enough that catastrophic collisions are highly unlikely, so it does not include obstacle sensors (though future models might). If the robot does come into contact with an obstacle, it will stop moving in that direction until the user navigates away from the obstacle. Between the views offered by the regular camera and the floor camera, you shouldn’t have much difficulty avoiding obstacles.
At present, students and remote workers head the list of categories of people who use the Double 2. Rochelle mentioned that she works with about 20 young cancer patients who would be otherwise unable to attend school, but can keep up with their studies thanks to the ability to attend remotely via a robot. Similarly, with the rise of distance learning, universities are finding the robots useful for enabling online students to have “hands-on” access to professors and lab materials. As one example, Duke University uses the Double 2 to enable online nursing students to do treatment simulations. And, of course, students or workers who find themselves away from their families for long periods of time use the Double 2 to keep in touch, alleviate homesickness, and participate in family activities even when they can’t be there in person.
I found the Double 2 easy to use and have no hesitation in recommending it to any prospective users.
Pros: –Very easy to for anyone to learn how to use
–Isn’t cluttered with unnecessary features, but is nevertheless adaptable to a variety of environments and uses
–Viewing window and icons are well-laid out, and there is a nice wide angle of vision
–Floor cam, with view of robot’s base
Cons: –No means of tilting the view upward or downward
–No obstacle sensors
anonymous –
Test driving this robot was an absolute pleasure – the responsive, kind team, as well as Double’s great features, made my experience amazing! Controlling this robot was very easy and intuitive; there was no lag or noticeable delay in the signal. Double is reasonably fast with a speed of 1.6 mph (2.6 km/h) and very maneuverable. One drawback I could point out is that this robot doesn’t have an option to tilt the camera. However, you are able to easily raise and lower the head, allowing you to better communicate with both sitting and standing people. Double doesn’t come with a build in screen – you need to attach an iPad (2, Air or Air 2). Since a lot of people already own iPads, buying Double saves them money and using one device for multiple purposes is even eco-friendly. Also, your tablet couldn’t run out of battery while driving Double, as it’s automatically charged from the power source of the robot.
I was a bit nervous about doing a demo drive, as I knew that Double doesn’t have any sensors that stop it from bumping into walls or people and falling down stairs. This could definitely be a problem for some people, however, this robot compensates with a very effective system of overcoming obstacles. At any time, you’re able to access a camera, placed on the bottom of the head, looking down. This allows you to see what’s in your way and easily go around it. The other feature that helps you out is the lateral stability control that allows the Double to go over obstacles, often found in buildings (for example, electrical cords and dividers). When I went over a cord, I hardly even felt it, as this was no challenge for the robot.
I really liked the fact that you don’t need to install any software, in order to control Double. A feature that I found useful was the ability to screen share, as it’s a much easier to get your point across. There’s also a multi-viewer mode that allows up to 5 people to use Double, while one person’s driving it around. If you plan to stay in one place for a while, you could even park the robot, making it more stable. One disadvantage is that Double doesn’t have an auto-dock option, as it’s certainly easier to just go in the vicinity of the charger and press a button. Although, it’s more of a fun fact and not connected to the technical side of Double, this robot was featured in some popular shows like “Bones” and “Modern Family”.
So, to sum up my experience, here are the pros and cons of Double:
Pros:
+ Cheap if you already own an iPad
+ Easy obstacle avoidance
+ Great features (screen share, park, multi-viewer)
+ No software installation required
+ Tablet auto-charge
+ Lateral stability control
+ Great customer service
Cons:
– Works only with computers and iOS devices
– Can’t tilt head
– No auto-dock
anonymous –
We’ve had students participate in class virtually with the Double 2 robot. We’ve had a few times when we set up the robot, and then moved to another WiFi node, and had it disconnect. Other than that, it’s been great! We have our’s dressed up with a tee shirt on a hanger, and we even had one person pat it on the shoulder when they finished with their conversation and said goodbye.
I’d love to hear how people are using this to ease students with anxiety or other disabilities into the general classroom.