by calling all techies: meet the hexapod XR R1
Chinese robotics and artificial intelligence platform Shenzhen XiaoR Geek Technology recently launched its latest creation on Kickstarter: the XR R1 hexapod, with an all-metal body, built-in camera and AI module. The six-legged bionic robot is designed with ‘a high degree of maneuverability that provides versatility of movements and actions, and can nimbly handle different environments and terrains,’ explains the company. With such flexible qualities, the Hexapod can be used by any tech enthusiast, from beginners to professionals, and is easily controlled with a smartphone, PC, or gamepad.
images and GIFs courtesy of Shenzhen XiaoR Geek Technology
360° movement with pre-programmed actions and servos
Crawling like a spider, the XR R1 Hexapod can nimbly execute a 360° movement. Combine that with its 12 pre-programmed moves, the robot becomes ‘an amazing tool for robotic demonstration and performance,’ writes the Shenzhen XiaoR Geek Technology team. Actions Hexapod can engage in include: warm up, run away, roll over, and taunt. XR R1 is also equipped with 18 high-performance servos and bionic functions, allowing it to conquer the most difficult terrain.
high degree of maneuverability
an open source robot available in three different models
More importantly, the six-legged tracker can perform different tasks thanks to its quad-core ARM. [email protected] GHz processor, Robot-Eye 3.0 camera and AI programming source. On the one hand, ‘Using a powerful artificial intelligence system, XR R1 is capable of facial recognition, color recognition, QR code recognition, line tracking and more,‘ continues the team. On the other hand, equipped with the Python and C++ programming languages, the Hexapod serves as an open source device that tech-savvy users can customize and program in any way they want, offering endless configurations.
advantages of the Robot-Eye 3.0 camera
Ensuring that any techie, savvy or not, can enjoy the device, the company is offering three different versions of its XR Hexapod: the R1 Kickstarter Special Edition (starting at $899), the entry-level E1 model (for $699) and finally the advanced J1 Jetson Nano ($1,899). Mass production is expected to begin in January 2023, with first shipping orders set for February 2023.
the robot integrates 12 pre-programmed movements
For those interested, a user manual is available for download here. Additionally, a full list of technical specifications for each proposed model (E1, R1, and J1) is detailed on the product’s Kickstarter page. The team has also pointed out some risks and challenges related to shipping logistics (tariffs and customs regulations) and the possibility of some ‘hidden obstacles‘ that may arise during production.
bionic features give it great adaptability
project information:
Name: XR R1 Hexapod
design: Shenzhen XiaoR Geek Technology Co., Ltd.
Size: 350x350x250mm
weight: 3.2kg
drive form: multi foot unit
motherboard: Raspberry PI 4B
processor: Quad core ARM [email protected] GHz
camera: Robot-Eye 3.0, 200 million pixels
ports: USB 2.0 Micro-B, GPIO, 12C, 12s, SPI, UART
drums: 8.4V, 400mAh
steering engine: XR-S270
programming language: Python, C++
material: Aluminum Stainless Steel
full list of specifications: Available on Kickstarter
