The new Unitree Go2-W quadruped enables an old dog to learn new tricks.
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The new Unitree Go2-W quadruped adds wheels to the feet, offering new types of locomotion. | Credit: Unitree
Unitree Robotics launched its latest quadruped platform, the Go2-W (“W” for wheeled). This is a variation of its low-cost Go2 quadruped. The new Go2-W features wheels instead of “paws,” giving it a unique kinematic design that makes the robot nimble, efficient on hard surfaces, and capable of some new tricks.
When operating in wheeled mode, the legs of the Go2-W function like active shock absorbers, smoothing the ride for the Go2-W body (and presumable any sensors on board).
The Go2-W shares all of the same basic specs as the Go2. This includes Unitree’s proprietary 4D LIDAR L1 with 360°x90° hemispherical ultra-wide recognition. The Go2-W is 70cm x 43cm x 50cm (27.5″ x 16.9″ x 19.7″) and weighs a svelt 18kg (39.7 lbs). The basic battery on the Go2-W is the same as the Go2, but the Go2-W includes a long endurance version at 15000 mAh.
The video below shows the Go2-W rolling on 2-4 wheels when needed. It can also walk like a typical quadruped by locking the wheels and climb over obstacles up to 70 cm (2.3 ft).
Unitree isn’t the first quadruped to attach wheels to a quadruped. Companies like LimX and ANYbotics have each demonstrated quadrupeds with wheels. The concept of a wheeled quadruped provides a mixed-modality mobile robot that can use its wheels on hard, smooth surfaces for efficient motion. It can then switch to four-legged motion when there are obstacles (like stairs) to move through.
Unitree hasn’t shared the price of the Go2-W, but the entry-level Go2 starts at $1600 USD.
The Boston Dynamics Spot and ANYbotics ANYmal are both industrialized quadrupeds, designed to operate in extreme conditions. The ANYmal is explosion-proof and certified for operations where explosive chemicals or fumes might be present.
Unitree, Boston Dynamics, ANYbotics, and several other mobile robotics companies all signed a promise not to sell their solutions for weaponized applications in the military.
The Unitree Go2-W robot can maneuver over large obstacles. | Credit: Unitree
The post Unitree Go2 quadruped hits the road with new wheels appeared first on The Robot Report.
