Deep Robotics is at the IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation, showing off its new Lite3, which in the video below is identified as a “robot dog.” We disagree.
We know all about robot dogs. Lite3 looks much more like a robot cat.
See how it crouches down with a baleful glare? Note its agility as it leaps in the air, scampers up stairs, and turns around to shove its bottom in your face? That’s definitely cat behavior.
Robots to the rescue
Lite3 is AI-powered and intended for rescue work. Admittedly, the company’s website also describes it as a “robot dog,” and it does weigh 26 pounds, which is pretty beefy for a cat. Just watch the video before you decide.
According to the website, the Deep Robotics Lite3 has a higher driving force and an improved AI algorithm. It boasts a 50% joint torque increase, extremely high torque density, and reversed transmission efficiency. The Lite3 also has stronger sumo ability and greater maneuverability. It features enhanced real-time image transmission and latency is reduced, compared to earlier models. The Lite3 is designed for unlimited modifications with additional applicable modules.
Sumo ability?
We are not familiar with “sumo ability.” It is not on our robotics shopping list. However, we think that the term refers to the robot’s strength and stability, particularly when pushing or resisting force. The term “sumo” is probably a reference to the traditional Japanese sport of sumo wrestling. Sumo wrestlers rely on strength, balance, and technique to push their opponent out of the ring. Sumo ability is not just strength, though. It also suggests the robot’s ability to maintain its balance and resist being pushed over, which is crucial in tasks involving pushing or shoving.
The Lite3 has been used in rescue operations already, as well as in research and “innovative entertainment,” according to Interesting Engineering. The entertainment part may refer to its ability to do flips, which probably doesn’t come up as much in rescue operations as you would think from watching kung fu movies.
But the makers expect it to be widely used for many purposes in the future. We’ll be watching with interest.
In the meantime, when you need service or support for your Indramat motion control systems, we should be the first ones you call. We facilitate repair and reman of all Indramat components. We’re centrally located in the United States for optimal delivery, and we have the nation’s largest stock of emergency replacement units on hand.
Call (479) 422-0390 for immediate assistance.