Unitree Robotics has unveiled impressive upgrades for its B2-W robot dog, showcasing remarkable agility and functional versatility. Through a series of videos shared on social media, the company has highlighted the B2-W’s new capabilities, including complex acrobatic maneuvers and practical applications.
One of the standout features of the upgraded B2-W is its ability to perform a spinning handstand. The robot executes a 3.5-spin maneuver on its frontal limbs, a feat that underscores its high-performance joints and precise balance. Following the handstand, the B2-W transitions seamlessly into a Thomas flare, a dynamic move where the robot balances on two limbs on the same side and switches positions while spinning.
The videos also demonstrate the B2-W’s ability to perform a side flip while standing on the edge of a hill. It descends steep slopes at full speed using its four limbs, maintaining balance even on challenging terrains. Further highlighting its versatility, the robot races through water bodies, climbs onto fountains, and tackles obstacles like a 6.2-foot (1.9-meter) jump in the handstand position. Notably, it remains unscathed after landing from a rooftop jump, emphasizing its robust design.
Beyond acrobatics, the B2-W excels in practical tasks. It is seen safely transporting objects, such as tires, across uneven surfaces. In another instance, it carries a mid-sized adult over rough terrain, maintaining a steady pace and proving its capability to transport loads over long distances with ease.
From a technical standpoint, the B2-W builds on the features of Unitree’s earlier B2 line. Weighing 165 pounds (75 kilograms), the robot measures 1098mm×550mm×758mm when in a standing position. Its powerful wheel motors, combined with replaceable wheels attached to its limbs, allow it to traverse rough terrains effortlessly.
The B2-W has an impressive endurance of 31 miles (50 kilometers) with an 88-pound (40-kilogram) load. In its standing position, it can carry a maximum load of 264 pounds (120 kilograms), making it suitable for both industrial and field applications. It also boasts a temperature operating range from -4°F (-20°C) to 131°F (55°C), ensuring functionality in extreme climates.
Certified with an IP67 rating, the B2-W is resistant to dust and water, capable of operating even after being submerged in up to 3.2 feet (1 meter) of water for 30 minutes. Its ability to climb slopes exceeding 45 degrees adds another layer of practicality for diverse environments.
Priced at $100,000, the Unitree B2-W blends agility and durability, making it a significant upgrade in the field of robotics. Its acrobatic precision, coupled with its practical capabilities, makes it a versatile solution for industries and research applications alike.
Source: Unitree Robotics
