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Quadruped Robot Dog (V2)

Project Status: Finished

This project is fully completed. The following documentation provides an overview of the system architecture, control interfaces, and transport logistics. Detailed technical deep-dives will be added here as time permits.

1. Project Overview

This quadruped robot is the result of over 2000 hours of design, development, and assembly. The ultimate goal was to create a highly capable robotic platform with a massive focus on User Experience (UX), seamless field deployment, and robust remote teleoperation.

Key Features:

  • Interactive Animatronic Head: The head features a moving antenna, side lights, and a motorized retractable laser.
  • Touch-Sensitive: The robot's head detects physical touch (e.g., placing a hand on it) and responds immediately with movement and light effects.
  • Night Vision: Equipped with infrared (IR) lights and a switchable camera mode to see perfectly in total darkness.
  • Custom Power System: Utilizes compact, interchangeable homemade batteries featuring standardized dimensions and built-in folding handles for ergonomics. They simply slide and lock into the robot's dock.

2. Next-Gen Control Interface (Legion Go)

The teleoperation system is built around a Lenovo Legion Go acting as a Handheld Ground Control Station (GCS).

  • Physical Controls: Uses the Legion Go's physical joysticks and buttons to accurately drive the robot in real-time.
  • Python Graphical Interface: A comprehensive custom Python GUI is displayed on the 8.8-inch screen.
  • Live Video Telemetry: Streams real-time video feeds from both the front camera and a secondary camera located underneath the robot. The interface allows dynamic adjustments to the frame rate and video compression levels.
  • Monitoring & Diagnostics: The UI features dedicated pages for controlling head animatronics, monitoring live telemetry data from all motors, and displaying raw values from the physical inputs.

3. Deployment & Transport Logistics

To ensure the robot is always ready for the field, a complete logistics ecosystem was designed:

  • Custom Peli Case: The robot is safely transported in a heavy-duty Peli-style flight case with a custom-fitted interior.
  • Auto-Docking Stance: When the robot is held over the open case, it automatically detects it and adjusts its legs into the perfect folded position, allowing you to slide it straight in.
  • All-in-One Storage: The case is designed to hold the robot, spare batteries, and the Legion Go controller, creating a fully self-sufficient deployment kit.