Kawasaki Unveils Bex, a Quadruped Robot Goat for Transport and Inspection
Key Takeaways
- Kawasaki launches Bex, a robot goat that can carry up to 100 kg
- Bex features a hybrid mobility system, allowing it to walk or roll on wheels
- The robot is modular, enabling customization for various tasks
- Aimed at industrial inspections and material transport, similar to Boston Dynamics' Spot
- Bex was unveiled at the International Robot Exhibition 2022 in Tokyo
Kawasaki's Bex Robot Goat Makes Its Debut
Kawasaki, best known for its motorcycles, has entered the robotics arena with the introduction of Bex, a quadruped robot modeled after a goat. Revealed at the International Robot Exhibition (iREX) 2022 in Tokyo, Japan, Bex is the latest outcome of Kawasaki's Kaleido program, which has focused on developing humanoid robots since 2015.
Design and Mobility
Bex is designed to bridge the gap between humanoid and wheeled robots. It features four legs that allow it to walk like a goat, complete with horn-like protrusions. The robot can carry the weight of an adult human and even transport goods. When speed is needed, Bex activates its hybrid mobility system, lowering its body and kneeling on four pairs of wheels at each knee, effectively transforming into a wheeled vehicle. However, this mode is only possible on level surfaces. On uneven terrain, Bex reverts to standing on its movable wheels to maintain stability.
Practical Applications
Although capable of carrying passengers, Bex is primarily engineered for transporting building materials and other items across worksites. Its rated carrying capacity is approximately 200 pounds (100 kg). Kawasaki envisions using Bex for remote industrial site inspections, a role similar to that performed by Boston Dynamics' Spot robot at Hyundai facilities in Korea.
Modular Design
The upper section of Bex is fully modular, allowing users to customize it according to specific needs. This flexibility makes the robot adaptable for various applications, from logistics to specialized industrial tasks.
The Broader Robot Landscape
Kawasaki is not alone in developing animal-inspired robots. Hyundai has created MobED, a robot that carries daily items, while China recently unveiled a Yak-shaped robot intended for military operations. These innovations suggest a future where robots could significantly reduce the need for physical labor in demanding environments.
