Quadruped Robots

Introducing the Unitree Go2 EDU Quadruped: A New Era of Robotics Education with DroneBlocks

February 14, 2024 — 6 minutes

In the realm of educational robotics, the launch of the Unitree Go2 Quadruped marks a transformative moment, blending advanced robotics with comprehensive learning tools. This revolutionary platform, brought to the forefront by DroneBlocks, is not just an addition to the educational toolkit; it’s a leap into the future of STEM education, offering students and educators an unparalleled opportunity to explore the intricacies of AI, robotics, and programming. Let’s delve into the unique features of the Unitree Go2, highlighting its 4D LiDAR system, superior AI capabilities with the NVIDIA Jetson Orin NX module, and the extensive curriculum and support provided by DroneBlocks.

Breakthrough Capabilities with 4D LiDAR Technology

The cornerstone of the Unitree Go2’s exceptional navigational and recognition abilities is its state-of-the-art 4D LiDAR system. This technology provides a 360°x90° hemispherical field of view, ensuring minimal blind spots and a detection range starting from as low as 0.05 meters. Such precision in environmental mapping and obstacle detection allows the Go2 to adapt and respond to various terrains and challenges, making it a perfect tool for hands-on learning in robotics and AI.

Elevating AI with NVIDIA Jetson Orin NX

The AI prowess of the Unitree Go2 Quadruped is significantly enhanced by its integration with the NVIDIA Jetson Orin NX 16GB module, which delivers an astounding 100 TOPS (Tera Operations Per Second) of AI performance. This powerful AI engine enables the Go2 to process complex datasets, run multiple AI models simultaneously, and perform sophisticated tasks with ease and efficiency. For educational purposes, this means students can dive deep into machine learning, neural networks, and AI programming, exploring real-world applications in robotics with a platform capable of high-level computation and real-time processing.

Revolutionary Power with the New Battery System

A crucial element that sets the Unitree Go2 Quadruped apart in the realm of educational and robotic innovation is its advanced battery system. Understanding the need for extended operational capabilities in both educational settings and practical applications, the Go2 introduces a state-of-the-art battery system that significantly enhances its endurance and efficiency.

Equipped with two battery options, the standard 8000mAh battery and an optional long-endurance 15000mAh battery, the Go2 ensures that users have the flexibility to choose based on their needs. This leap in battery capacity translates to prolonged exploration, learning sessions, and uninterrupted project development, with the standard battery offering about 1-2 hours of operation, and the long-endurance option extending that to an impressive 2-4 hours.

Moreover, the upgraded battery system operates at an increased voltage of 28.8V, optimizing the Go2’s motor efficiency, power output, and overall stability. This is particularly beneficial when the Go2 is navigating challenging terrains or performing complex tasks that require a consistent and robust power supply.


Expanding Horizons with Optional Integrated LiDAR Upgrades

The Unitree Go2 Quadruped’s capabilities are further enhanced by optional LiDAR upgrades, offering unparalleled precision and adaptability for advanced robotics applications. These upgrades not only expand the Go2’s sensory and navigational proficiency but also provide educators and learners with more sophisticated tools for in-depth robotics and AI research. Let’s explore the two optional LiDAR upgrades that can transform the Go2 into an even more powerful learning platform.

1. 3D LiDAR Hesai XT16

The 3D LiDAR Hesai XT16 is a high-precision, long-range sensing solution that significantly enhances the Go2’s environmental mapping and obstacle detection capabilities. With a vertical field of view from -16° to +15° and a horizontal resolution of 0.18° at 10 Hz, the XT16 delivers detailed spatial awareness.

  • Field of View (FoV): 31°, with vertical angles from -16° to +15°, providing comprehensive environmental coverage.
  • Resolution: Achieves 0.18° horizontally at 10 Hz and 1° vertically, for precise detail capture.
  • Dimensions: Compact design with a top diameter of 100.0 mm, bottom diameter of 103.0 mm, and height of 76.0 mm.
  • Range: Impressive detection from 0.05 m up to 120 m, accommodating both near and far objects.
  • Precision and Accuracy: Offers range precision of 0.5 cm at 1σ and accuracy within ±1 cm, ensuring reliable data.
  • Power Consumption: Efficient operation at 10 W, with a point rate of 640,000 points per second on a single return.

2. MID-360

The MID-360 LiDAR provides a comprehensive 360° horizontal and a -7° to 52° vertical field of view, making it ideal for creating detailed environmental models and enhancing the Go2’s navigation in complex terrains.

  • Detection Range: Capable of detecting objects up to 40 m at 10% reflectivity and 70 m at 80% reflectivity.
  • FOV: Offers a full 360° horizontal view and a broad vertical range from -7° to 52°.
  • Precision: Delivers range precision of ≤2 cm at 10 m and ≤3 cm at 0.2 m, with angular precision less than 0.15º.
  • Point and Frame Rate: Achieves a point rate of 200,000 points per second and a typical frame rate of 10 Hz.
  • Data and Power: Features 100 BASE-TX Ethernet data port, with power consumption averaging 6.5 W and a supply voltage range of 9 ~ 27 V DC.
  • Environmental Durability: Built to operate between -4°F to 131°F, with an IP67 rating, ensuring resilience in diverse conditions.

Enhancing Functionality with the D1 Servo Arm Upgrade

A notable enhancement to the Unitree Go2 Quadruped is the addition of the D1 Servo Arm, a robotic arm upgrade that significantly expands the Go2’s interactive capabilities and operational flexibility. This upgrade introduces precision manipulation and handling, allowing users to explore complex tasks and projects that require delicate movements and object interaction. Let’s delve into the features and specifications of the D1 Servo Arm to understand how it augments the Go2’s functionality.

D1 Servo Arm Specifications

  • Degree of Freedom: The D1 Servo Arm boasts 6 degrees of freedom, enabling it to perform a wide range of movements and tasks with precision.
  • Payload: It can handle payloads of approximately 500g, making it suitable for a variety of educational and practical applications.
  • Max Armspan: With a maximum arm span of 550mm (without jaws), the D1 offers substantial reach, allowing it to interact with objects that are both near and far from its base.
  • Repeated Positioning Accuracy: The arm’s design ensures a repeated positioning accuracy of about 0.2 cm, which is crucial for tasks requiring high precision.
  • Power Requirement: The D1 operates on a 24V 2.5A power supply, with a maximum requirement of 5A, ensuring efficient energy use while maintaining robust performance.
  • Interface: For power connection, it utilizes a DC5.5-2.1 interface, which is widely used and easy to manage.
  • Motor Type: The arm is powered by Servo motors, known for their precision and reliability, with a power rating of 60W.
  • Control Interface: Integration and control are facilitated through an RJ45 (ETH) control communication interface, ensuring seamless operation and compatibility with the Go2’s systems.

Comprehensive Curriculum and Endless Possibilities

DroneBlocks is not just providing a robotic platform; we’re offering an in-depth curriculum designed to harness the full potential of the Unitree Go2. Our curriculum will cover everything from basic programming concepts to advanced AI and robotics principles, tailored to engage students at all levels of expertise. Through hands-on projects, learners will explore the functionalities of the Go2, including its advanced sensing and navigation capabilities, AI-driven interactions, and optional LiDAR attachments for extended functionalities. Our curriculum is meticulously crafted to spark curiosity, encourage innovation, and prepare students for the future of technology.

Unrivaled Support from DroneBlocks’ Dedicated US Team

Understanding the complexities involved in robotics and AI education, DroneBlocks offers unlimited technical support from our dedicated US-based support team. Whether it’s troubleshooting hardware issues, guiding through programming challenges, or integrating the Go2 into your curriculum, our team is committed to providing timely and effective support. This ensures a seamless and enriching educational experience for both educators and students, allowing them to focus on learning and exploration without technical hindrances.

The Future is Here with Unitree Go2 and DroneBlocks

The Unitree Go2 Quadruped, empowered by DroneBlocks’ curriculum and support, is set to redefine educational robotics. With its advanced 4D LiDAR system, AI capabilities powered by NVIDIA Jetson Orin NX, and a rich suite of educational resources, the Go2 is not just a robot; it’s a gateway to understanding the future of technology. This platform offers an immersive, hands-on learning experience that prepares students for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow’s tech landscape.

Embrace the future of robotics education with the Unitree Go2 Quadruped and discover the boundless possibilities that DroneBlocks brings to STEM learning. Together, we’re not just teaching robotics; we’re inspiring the next generation of innovators and creators.

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