If you’re having trouble in the water at Malibu’s Zuma Beach this summer, you might just be saved by a robot named EMILY (EMergency Integrated Lifesaving lanYard), which is a robotic-raft that folks are hoping will someday replace human lifeguards. In other words, EMILY is a padded surfboard that’s strapped to an engine and jet ski impeller, and is capable of speeds up to 28mph. This robotic lifeguard uses sonar to detect underwater movements associated with swimmers in distress, which should be quite handy, since it’s probably something that we can’t do. Right now EMILY is still remote-controlled, but the manufacturer is looking to start selling an autonomous version of it next spring for $3,500, so it’s only a matter of time. Check out a video of EMILY after the jump.
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