HTX conducts trial of AI-based hybrid-wheeled quadruped robot
The hybrid-wheeled quadruped robot that RAUS CoE is currently testing. (Photo: HTX)
You would likely have come across four-legged robots – take HTX’s very own
Rover-X for example – that ‘walk’ as well as those that get around using wheels, but have you ever seen one that can do both?
From 14-29 August 2024, HTX’s
Robotics, Automation & Unmanned Systems (RAUS) Centre of Expertise (CoE) conducted a trial for one such robot to determine whether it can help augment Home Team operations in the future.
Developed by Swiss robotics startup Swiss-Mile Robotics AG, a spin-off from ETH Zurich’s Robotic Systems Lab, the robot uses Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML) to optimise its movement and can seamlessly switch between using its wheels and walking on its legs.
This marked the first time a trial for an AI-based hybrid-wheeled quadruped robot was conducted in Singapore.
The hybrid-wheeled quadruped robot moves across uneven terrain. (Photo: HTX)
The versatile platform can also be customised to carry different payloads and operate in a variety of Home Team’s operational roles.
The platform features ML algorithms for optimal motion, distinguishing it from traditional machine-based hardcoded algorithms that rely solely on predefined instructions. By leveraging sensor data and advanced AI-driven Reinforcement Learning (RL), the platform is capable of continuously enhancing its locomotion capabilities.
Unlike conventional legged robots, the addition of wheels allows it to significantly improve gait efficiency, speed, endurance, and payload capacity.
The hybrid-wheeled quadruped robot scales a flight of stairs. (Photo: HTX)
According to Benjamin Lin, Lead Engineer (Automation) at RAUS CoE, the quadruped robot had won the prestigious DARPA Subterranean Challenge 2021 and had proven to be capable of overcoming challenging terrains and obstacles with speed and efficiency.
The decision to conduct a trial for the robot was made after a member of RAUS visited ETH Zurich and was shown an improved version of the robot with wheels.
“This improved hybrid-wheeled quadruped uses RL algorithm to optimise its movements and was unmatched in terms of locomotion, speed and payload. We thought that the capabilities would be an asset to the Home Team and hence got in touch with ETH Zurich,” said Benjamin.
“The research agreement we have with them involves conducting proof-of-concept (POC) trials at actual ops locations and improving the platform so that it can better meet the Home Team’s unique operational needs,” he added.
During the trial, which was conducted at the Home Team Tactical Centre at Mandai and other Home Team installations, RAUS CoE performed extensive stress tests and evaluated factors including locomotion, sensing, and autonomy.
Following the trial, RAUS CoE engineers will continue to work closely with Swiss-Mile Robotics AG to further develop the platform. Efforts will include enhancing its locomotion capabilities with RL using a digital twin before conducting verification tests in the second half of 2025.