In terms of application areas, the use of quadruped robotic dogs in power inspection can significantly improve operational efficiency and further ensure network reliability, making it a likely scenario for the first large-scale adoption of civilian robotic dogs. Unitree Robotics’ Unitree B2 is already performing power inspection tasks in certain substation equipment zones in China. Zhongjian Technology’s Lingrui P1 quadruped robotic dog is also positioned for the inspection market. In December 2024, Singapore Power Group (SP Group) introduced a quadruped robot named “SPock” in its power tunnel inspection project. This solution was jointly developed by DeepRobotics and its local partner EGP, marking the first successful overseas delivery of a robotic dog power tunnel inspection solution by a Chinese company.
Beyond power inspection, police patrols are also expected to become a major application scenario for quadruped robotic dogs. With advancements in speech recognition, natural language understanding, visual cognition, emotional interaction, and biomimetic design, the market for robotic dogs in home companionship is also poised for growth.
Core Components of Quadruped Robotic Dogs: Planetary Gear Reducer Joint Modules and Harmonic Drive Joint Modules
Quadruped robotic dogs have broad prospects in inspection and detection, fire rescue, security patrols, and home companionship. High load capacity and efficient mobility are key metrics for evaluating robotic dog performance, and the design of leg joint modules is fundamental to achieving these capabilities. Most currently available robotic dog products primarily use planetary gear reducer joint modules or harmonic drive joint modules in their joint designs.
In B2B applications, quadruped robots are often used in security inspections, fire safety, and other fields, assisting in high-risk or highly repetitive industrial tasks, frequently in collaboration with enterprises and governments. In September 2021, Unitree Robotics launched the industrial-grade quadruped robot B1, which has a maximum walking load capacity of 80kg, a peak load capacity of 100kg, and a sustained operational load capacity of over 30kg. It boasts superior obstacle-crossing abilities, enabling it to move effortlessly across complex terrains such as stairs, rubble, and railway tracks. It can operate in hazardous environments, withstand rainy conditions, and resist dust infiltration, even functioning underwater at depths of up to 1.2 meters. The upgraded Unitree B2 now serves as a specialized power “inspector”, performing inspection tasks in substation equipment zones across China.
DeepRobotics, founded in 2017, is a leading company in China’s quadruped robotics industry. Its founder and CEO, Zhu Qiuguo, is an associate professor and doctoral supervisor at Zhejiang University’s College of Control Science and Engineering, specializing in bionic robotics and machine intelligence. He led the development of the “Jueying” quadruped robot and the humanoid robot “Wukong.”
The company’s self-developed “Jueying” series of quadruped robots has been deployed in various applications, including security inspections, exploration, and public rescue operations, and has even participated in earthquake relief drills. DeepRobotics has established long-term collaborations with industry giants such as State Grid, China Southern Power Grid, Baosteel, and Fluke.
In December 2024, Singapore Power Group (SP Group) introduced the “SPock” quadruped robot in its power tunnel inspection project. This solution was jointly developed by DeepRobotics and its local partner EGP, marking the first successful overseas delivery of a robotic dog power tunnel inspection solution by a Chinese company.
SP Group considered not only cost factors and technical specifications but also placed great emphasis on full deployment and application. Due to differences in Singapore’s tunnel design and inspection tasks compared to traditional open-space inspections, the bidding parties’ ability to customize solutions for unique requirements was put to the test. Ultimately, SP Group selected the solution developed by DeepRobotics and EGP.
Quadruped Robots in Power Tunnel Inspection Improve Operational Efficiency and Enhance Network Reliability
The use of quadruped robots in power tunnel inspections can enhance operational efficiency and further ensure network reliability, with potential deployment in more scenarios in the future. According to Mr. Tang, the project lead at SP Group, a 6-kilometer underground power tunnel previously relied on manual inspections, requiring hours for personnel to complete checks, marking, photo documentation, and repairs. The introduction of “SPock” has revolutionized this process.
Equipped with thermal imaging and visual detection devices, “SPock” can accurately identify low-temperature areas on tunnel walls, detecting potential cracks or water seepage that could lead to power failures or accidents. This helps Singapore improve tunnel maintenance quality and ensure network reliability. SP Group officials stated that they plan to deploy “SPock” in more scenarios to further enhance overall operational efficiency.
Huawei Collaborates with Chengdu State-Owned Capital to Develop “Police Robotic Dogs”
The police robotic dogs seen on the streets of Chengdu were jointly developed by Chengdu鼎桥 (TD Tech) and Sichuan Jushen Robotics. Weighing approximately 50kg and capable of reaching speeds up to 4 meters per second, these robotic dogs can run, jump, autonomously avoid obstacles, navigate, and self-charge. They are also equipped with a robot brain independently developed by TD Tech.
The Chengdu Public Security Bureau has already adopted these robotic dogs for daily patrols and anti-fraud awareness campaigns.
