If you are a fan of the PR2 robots like me, then this could be your chance to own your very own. That is if you have a spare $400,000 at your disposal.
Willow Garage has been developing their PR2 robot over a number of years and now intends to release it to the public to be used for academic and industrial robotics research. With one now available to purchase by the general public.
Check out the video after the jump to see some of the development work currently putting the PR2 through its paces.
Technical Specifications and Features
The fantastic PR2 robot is a two-armed wheeled robot of size similar to a human, powered by a pair of onboard Xeon servers with eight cores, 24GB of RAM, and a 2TB HDD each. Its power is provided by a 1.3kWh battery, and it has built-in onboard chargers. This makes the PR2 not only powerful but also highly autonomous, capable of performing a wide range of tasks without frequent recharging.
Other features include an EtherCat motion control network, which ensures precise and synchronized movements of its arms and wheels. The Gigabit Ethernet network with a 32GB backplane switch allows for high-speed data transfer, essential for complex computations and real-time processing. Additionally, the dual WiFi radios and a base station provide robust connectivity, enabling the PR2 to communicate seamlessly with other devices and networks.
The PR2 is equipped with a variety of sensors, including laser range finders, stereo cameras, and an IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit). These sensors allow the robot to navigate its environment, avoid obstacles, and interact with objects and humans in a sophisticated manner. The robot’s arms are highly dexterous, capable of performing tasks that require fine motor skills, such as picking up small objects or using tools.
Applications and Potential Uses
The PR2 robot is designed for a wide range of applications, making it a versatile tool for both academic and industrial research. In academic settings, the PR2 can be used to study human-robot interaction, machine learning, and autonomous navigation. Researchers can program the PR2 to perform specific tasks, collect data, and analyze the results to advance the field of robotics.
In industrial settings, the PR2 can be used for automation and quality control. Its ability to perform repetitive tasks with high precision makes it ideal for manufacturing processes. For example, the PR2 can be programmed to assemble small components, inspect products for defects, or even assist in packaging and shipping.
Via Slash Gear
The PR2’s versatility extends to healthcare as well. It can assist in rehabilitation exercises, provide companionship to elderly patients, and even help with daily tasks such as fetching items or opening doors. Its ability to learn and adapt to new tasks makes it a valuable asset in dynamic environments where human needs are constantly changing.
The PR2 robot by Willow Garage represents a significant advancement in robotics technology. Its powerful hardware, sophisticated sensors, and versatile applications make it a valuable tool for both researchers and industry professionals. While the price tag of $400,000 may be steep, the potential benefits and advancements that the PR2 can bring to various fields make it a worthwhile investment.
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