Robot dog is making waves with its underwater skills
The world of robotics has taken an exciting plunge with the latest iteration of MAB Robotics’ Honey Badger quadruped robot. This innovative machine is not just another land-dwelling robot dog; it is now making waves with its ability to walk underwater.
MAB Robotics, a Polish company founded in 2019, has been refining its Honey Badger robot since its inception. The fourth generation, known as Honey Badger 4.0, has added a surprising new skill to its repertoire: underwater locomotion.
The Honey Badger 4.0 measures about 23.6 inches in length and stands between 9.8 and 19.6 inches high, weighing in at approximately 26.5 pounds. This compact yet capable machine boasts a payload capacity of around 4.4 pounds. It is equipped with RGB and thermal cameras, lidar and gas sensors, allowing it to navigate various environments effectively. The robot can operate for up to two hours on its built-in lithium-ion battery and can be controlled remotely via 5G or a fiber-optic cable.
What truly sets the Honey Badger apart is its amphibious capability. Recent footage shows the robot confidently walking along the bottom of a swimming pool. While legs may not be the most efficient means of underwater propulsion, this versatility opens up new possibilities for the robot’s applications.
The Honey Badger’s amphibious nature makes it ideal for a variety of tasks. It could be invaluable in search and rescue operations in disaster areas, as well as for inspection and maintenance in flooded environments. The robot is also well-suited for industrial inspections across diverse settings and can contribute to research and development in robotics and locomotion.
The Honey Badger 4.0’s ability to operate both on land and underwater showcases the potential for versatile and adaptable robots in various fields. As MAB Robotics continues to refine and improve their design, we can expect to see even more impressive capabilities from this tough little robot dog. The future of robotics is looking increasingly amphibious, and the Honey Badger is leading the pack.
