Move over typical robot dogs, this creation is a beast!
Forget your typical robot dog; this one is a powerhouse!
A video shared by Unitree, a civilian robotics firm based in Hangzhou City, eastern China, showcases the B2-W robot dog executing movements reminiscent of Thomas flairs with remarkable speed and strength.
According to Unitree's website, the B2-W can reach a maximum speed of 20 kilometers per hour and can travel as far as 50 kilometers. That's longer than a marathon!
Check out the video to see its impressive agility!
Robot dog on wheels
The B2-W robot dog features a unique design: each of its four legs is equipped with wheels. While previous models from Unitree mirrored Boston Dynamics' aesthetic, this new design marks a significant departure into innovative territory. Unlike Boston Dynamics, which has not extensively pursued wheeled movement, Unitree has successfully integrated advanced sensors, powerful motors, and finely tuned software to achieve previously unseen movements.
China's recent infrastructure boom has generated a strong demand for robots in inspection and maintenance roles. This need has propelled the growth of domestic robotics firms, which in turn has invigorated supporting industries focusing on sensors and motors. Given this robust ecosystem, it’s hardly surprising that we are witnessing the emergence of impressive innovations like the B2-W.
Heated debate
The video of the robot dog has gone viral, inciting a lively discussion in the comments section.
Some viewers express skepticism, suggesting the footage is CGI or AI-generated, while others highlight that Unitree has been marketing different robot dog models for a significant time, demonstrating their practical capabilities.
Accusations of "copycat" behavior towards Boston Dynamics have also surfaced. However, many counter that the B2-W’s performance evidently exceeds anything Boston Dynamics has previously showcased.
The conversation has shifted to the potential uses for the robot. Some individuals perceive limited practical value, while others contend that such advanced features will inevitably tap into a market. Concerns over the potential for weaponization by malicious entities—a common worry in the realm of advanced robotics—have also been raised.
Throughout the discussion, numerous comments commend China’s innovative capacity. They argue that while many groundbreaking inventions come from other regions, China has a knack for identifying optimal real-world applications and capitalizing on its robust manufacturing capabilities to swiftly scale production and make these technologies widely accessible.
Debra A Smith contributed to this report for TROIB News