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Renowned Chinese robotics company Unitree has introduced its latest innovation in firefighting technology: a new line of quadruped robots designed for fire rescue operations. These robots, built to tackle the unique challenges of dangerous environments, offer a blend of advanced mobility, powerful firefighting capabilities, and real-time situational awareness, making them a significant tool for modern emergency response.
At the heart of these robots is a powerful water cannon capable of firing water or foam at a range of up to 60 meters with a flow rate of 40 liters per second. The cannon’s adjustable angle, ranging from 5° to 85°, allows for precise firefighting in a variety of scenarios. In addition, the robots feature a specialized air blower for forest fires, which helps suppress flames and dissipate heat using high-speed airflow, further enhancing their versatility in different terrains, according to Interesting Engineering.
Designed with enhanced mobility, these robots are equipped with joints that improve performance by 170%, enabling them to navigate challenging environments, including climbing steps up to 40 cm high. Their rugged construction, made from composite metal materials, ensures durability even in extreme conditions, such as extreme heat and dust-filled areas, using an integrated cooling system.
In terms of operation, Unitree’s robots come with a quick-swap battery system that allows for uninterrupted mission continuity during critical tasks. The robots are also equipped with a visualization platform that streams real-time video to remote teams, providing invaluable situational awareness and improving decision-making during high-risk operations.
Unitree’s robots have already been deployed in various emergency situations. In addition to their role in active firefighting, these robots are used for post-disaster surveillance, ensuring thorough monitoring of fire conditions to prevent reignition. Their multifunctional design has proven invaluable in exercises and real-life emergencies, where they have assisted with everything from fire-source detection to environmental reconnaissance in complex settings like underground fire scenarios.
These advanced quadruped robots signal a new era in firefighting, where technology plays an essential role in safeguarding both human lives and property.
