‘Westworld’-like humanoid robots will soon cuddle children at Disneyland

The popularity of “Westworld” is becoming more evident as Disney is planning to introduce humanoid robots to its park goers like in the HBO show. This could be in your child’s next Christmas wishlist too.

“Westworld” fans, robotics enthusiasts as well as children would soon have a change to hug real humanoid robots like in the drama series. Disney has filed a patent application in February for a "soft body robot” that is designed for physical interaction with humans on Disneyland amusement parks.

But unlike in the sci-fi western-themed TV show, the Disney's “humanoid robots” is said to be safe and will not cause any harm to the park goers. Apparently, the robots will have their limbs programmed by a controller who will operate "desired motions" for the robots.

However, the patent document, released by US Patent & Trademark Office, also has some disclosures. It stated that "it has proven difficult to provide wholly safe interactions between humans and robots simply by operating these humanoid and other robots with controlled movements."

In the world of “Westworld,” the android hosts cannot hurt the guests in the park. In the end, however, at least of one of them (Maeve) gained free will and defied her programming. Another (Dolores) seems to have also gained self-awareness and shot her creator.

This is not the first time Disney presented the idea of a huggable robot to the public. In its 2014 animated comedy film “Big Hero 6,” the company introduced the inflatable healthcare robot Baymax.

The patent application has revealed that Disney scientists have already developed a small toy-sized prototype that looks like Baymax. It has soft body parts that are filled with fluid and gas, and are able to be programmed by a controller. Each body part is also connected to a pressure sensor to sense contact and for safe interaction with younger people.

The application also includes illustrations and description of the robot. However, there is no information on when Disney hopes to put its "humanoid robots" into action.

Meanwhile, HBO renewed “Westworld” for another 10-episode season in November 2016. However, season 2 will not debut until 2018 as the network had previously explained that it needs more time for the huge project.

As for the Australia's premiere date of season 2, HBO has yet to make an announcement if Down Under will also have the kickoff date as the US. "Westworld" season 1 premiered on Australia’s Foxtel.