Boston Dynamics has deployed over 1,000 Spot quadrupeds in more than 35 countries, establishing itself as a prominent vendor for industrial applications.
In response to customer input, Boston Dynamics has introduced several new features for Spot, aiming to improve human-robot interactions and advance the development of versatile robots in the long term.
To enhance inspection workflows in industrial environments, Spot can now be equipped with three new imaging sensors. These include a thermal camera for detecting equipment overheating, an acoustic imager to alert abnormal noise readings such as air leaks, and an enhanced autonomy payload (EAP2) featuring a LiDAR camera.
Software upgrades have also been implemented, including an updated remote inspection software that efficiently collects and organizes spatially tagged data from Spot's onboard sensors during patrol missions. This software release simplifies the setup of inspection tasks and allows users to define alert criteria for sensor readings outside of predetermined thresholds.
Furthermore, the improved software version enables the processing of sub-regions within thermal images, facilitating temperature readings from multiple areas. This comprehensive dataset enhances data capture during Spot's facility patrols, with the flexibility to set different alerts for different parts of the scene.
Integration of gauge reading software from Levatas allows Spot to extract analog gauge values from visual camera images, enabling alerts when gauges exceed working limits. The system can also leverage acoustic data from the Fluke SV600 payload to notify users when sound levels surpass predefined thresholds.
Additionally, role-based access within the software restricts actions and access to different software features based on the user's assigned role.
On the physical side, Boston Dynamics has implemented an audio-visual system on Spot to notify nearby personnel of its actions. This includes flashing red lights when Spot moves through specific areas and white lights during inspection tasks.
Moreover, Spot has been enhanced to detect moving objects, such as people or forklifts, when equipped with the Spot EAP2 payload. When Spot identifies a moving object in its path, it signals, maintains a safe distance, and exercises increased caution to prevent unintended interactions.
This release also introduces new gaits to improve Spot's ability to navigate slippery floors and respond if traction is lost in any of its legs.
These developments highlight Boston Dynamics' commitment to delivering advanced robotic solutions and advancing the capabilities of autonomous systems.
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