Direct Drive Technology
These days, quadruped robots with powered wheels for feet aren’t uncommon, letting them walk or roll depending on the terrain. The modular D1 stands out by functioning as either a quadruped or two independent bipeds.
Traditional quadrupeds handle rough terrain well, stepping over obstacles and climbing stairs while keeping four points of contact for stability. Adding lockable wheels lets them move across smooth, flat surfaces much faster and more efficiently than walking alone.
The Rise of Self-Balancing Bipeds
Similarly, on flat ground, operating as a two-legged biped can save weight and energy by eliminating the need for the extra legs—hence the rise of self-balancing biped robots.
In the unpredictable real world, some situations favor the agility and efficiency of a biped, while others require the stability of a quadruped. This versatility inspired Hong Kong robotics company Direct Drive Technology to develop the D1.
Direct Drive Technology
Transformable Design
In quadruped mode, the robot performs like rivals’ models, but its central magnetic coupler lets it split into two autonomous bipeds that can rejoin on their own.
Each biped section weighs 24.3 kg (53.6 lb), can roll at speeds up to 11 km/h (7 mph), and runs for over five hours on a two-hour charge from its 43.2V/9-Ah lithium battery.
Each section runs Ubuntu 22.04 on a Jetson Orin NX 8GB processor, enabling it to operate autonomously or be controlled remotely.
Direct Drive Technology
When joined as a quadruped, the two biped units can carry up to 100 kg (220.5 lb). Potential uses include security patrols, short-range deliveries, search-and-rescue missions, and mobile filming.
You can buy a single D1 biped for US$7,499, or a pair that forms a quadruped for $13,999, with additional accessories like cameras sold separately.
See the D1 in action as it transforms in the video below.
Read the original article on: New Atlas
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