WHAT IS A QUADRUPED ROBOT?

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1. What is a quadruped robot?

A quadruped robot is a four-legged robot designed to mimic the movement and stability of animals like dogs or goats. It belongs to the broader category of legged mobile robots, which are designed for navigating complex environments that wheeled robots often struggle with.

Figure 1: Deep Robotics JueYing X30 quadruped robot for industrial use.

2. Physical Description

Structure: Quadruped robots have four articulated legs instead of wheels or tracks. This enables dynamic walking and climbing capabilities.

Size: They are typically small to medium-sized, ranging from compact inspection bots to larger models for carrying payloads.

Variants: Some versions include small wheels attached to each leg for hybrid walking-rolling mobility (e.g., Deep Robotics’ Lynx series).

Figure 2: Deep Robotics Lynx M20 Pro quadruped robot with wheel design.

Sensors & Equipment:

- Often equipped with a camera (RGB or RGBD), IMU, and optionally LiDAR for perception.
- Use SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) for autonomous navigation.

3. Key Abilities

Agile Mobility: Walk, trot, pace, or gallop depending on software control. Can maintain balance even when pushed or when walking over obstacles.
Versatility: Supports payload mounting for different tasks (e.g., inspection, reconnaissance, research).
SLAM-based Autonomy: Builds and navigates maps using onboard sensors, ideal for GPS-denied environments like indoor facilities or tunnels.
Sensor & Actuator Integration:
- Thermal cameras for temperature anomalies (e.g., electrical or mechanical faults that create overheating).
- Audio sensors for leak detection or machinery diagnostics.
- Gas sensors for hazardous gas detection (e.g., methane, CO₂, CO).
- Robotic arms for object manipulation or pressing buttons.

Auto-recharging or Docking: Some models support autonomous return-to-base and charging, enabling 24/7 deployment.

4. How Are Quadruped Robots Different from Other Mobile Robots?

Feature	Quadruped Robots	Wheeled Robots	Tracked Robots
Terrain Navigation	Excellent on uneven, rough, or soft ground	Best on flat surfaces	Good on uneven terrain but less agile
Mobility	Agile and adaptive, can walk over obstacles	Fast and efficient on smooth floors	Slower, more stable in rugged areas
Stair Climbing	Yes	Rarely	Sometimes
Turning Radius	Very tight, can rotate in place	Depends on wheel config	Medium
Payload Mounting	Flexible back-mount design	Often limited to chassis	Moderate
Complexity & Cost	High	Low to medium	Medium
Use Cases	Industrial inspection, defense, search & rescue	Delivery robots, floor cleaning	Agriculture, mining, defense