Pudu Robotics Pudu D5 Redefines Hybrid Automation in Rough Terrains

Pudu Robotics has released a video showcasing the capabilities of its new robot, the Pudu D5, which brilliantly integrates both wheeled and walking motion modes. The video demonstrates how the robot swiftly tackles staircases by seamlessly switching between modes. The climb speed is reported at 1.5 meters per second.

In the demonstration, the robot approaches the stairs on wheels, then lifts its legs and resumes movement on wheels whenever possible. The primary distinction of the D5 is its speed and smooth transition between different movement modes.

Pudu Robotics positions this hybrid approach as a practical solution for environments with both flat surfaces and elevation changes. The robot is designed for industrial settings and outdoor areas, where automation is challenged by uneven surfaces, stairs, and vast expanses. Equipped with two processors: the Nvidia Orin and RK3588, it boasts computing power up to 275 TOPS, facilitating real-time simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM), 3D reconstruction, obstacle avoidance, and route planning.

The perception system includes four 120-degree fisheye cameras and two 192-line LiDARs, creating dense 3D point clouds for navigation. The company claims that D5 can map and traverse areas up to 1 million square meters and cover up to 14 kilometers on a single charge. The robot can reach speeds up to 5 meters per second on flat surfaces, handle slopes of up to 30 degrees, and carry a load of up to 30 kilograms.

Comparable robots like Boston Dynamics’ Spot are also capable of stair climbing, yet they prioritize stability and balance, often moving slower. Pudu Robotics has already sold over 100,000 robots globally and plans further market expansion. Recent developments include collaborations with logistics companies to enhance warehouse efficiency and customization of robots to suit specific industry needs.