Robot manufacturer Sarcos Robotics introduces the Guardian XO Alpha exoskeleton. Aimed at industrial use, this wireless exoskeleton enables users to lift a weight of around 90 kilograms without risk or physical strain. The suit thus prevents work-related injuries.
The Guardian XO exoskeleton was announced by Sarcos Robotics in late 2018. This exoskeleton is designed to support people while performing strenuous tasks. The Guardian XO thus combines the intelligence, instinct and judgement of humans with the strength, tenacity and accuracy of machines, according to the manufacturer.
Counter staff shortage and increase safety
With the exoskeleton, Sarcos Robotics aims, among other things, to solve the shortage of personnel with the right knowledge and skills. At the same time, the exoskeleton helps increase safety in the workplace by preventing injuries and physical wear and tear, among other things.
"Safe, intuitive and easy to use; the Guardian XO enables teams to safely do more and empowers more people - both young and old and both small and large - to perform physically demanding tasks without strain on their bodies," the company writes in a press release.
Hot-swappable batteries
The Guardian XO uses hot-swappable batteries, meaning the batteries can be changed without having to interrupt the operation of the exoskeleton. Users can use the exoskeleton for a full working day without having to recharge the suit in between. The suit is completely cordless.
When announcing the exoskeleton in late 2018, Sarcos Robotics reported that the exoskeleton features 'Get-Out-of-the-Way' control. This system uses a series of sensors embedded in the exoskeleton to register user movements. This eliminates the need for users to attach sensors to their bodies, simplifying use. Sarcos Robotics states that the system responds to users' movements in milliseconds. The delay between movements of the exoskeleton and the user is therefore minimal.
'Get-Out-of-the-Way' control
The use of Get-Out-of-the-Way control makes the robot more intuitive and easier to use, according to the manufacturer. Thus, users need only minimal training to get started with the suit. Because no sensors need to be attached to the body, the exoskeleton can be 'donned' and put into use in less than a minute.
The Guardian XO is offered exclusively through a Robot-as-a-Service (RaaS) model. In this, users do not purchase the robot, but rent it and pay for its use. Sarcos Robotics claims that the exoskeleton delivers the productivity of multiple workers for the cost of one employee. At the same time, the exoskeleton helps prevent work-related injuries, enabling cost savings. The Guardian XO will appear on the market in late 2019. The first models are expected to be delivered to customers from early 2020.
Guardian S and Guardian GT
Besides the Guardian XO, Sarcos Robotics also supplies two other products: the Guardian S and Guardian GT. The Guardian S is a platform for performing remote visual inspections. The robot weighs only 8 kilograms. Thanks to its tracks, among other things, the robot is able to navigate over difficult terrain. Visual inspections are performed via real-time video, voice and data communication.
The Guardian GT is a robotic platform equipped with one or two robotic arms. The robot is available with tracks or wheels and can be controlled remotely by an operator. The robot is aimed at a variety of tasks ranging from lifting heavy objects to welding.
Author: Wouter Hoeffnagel
Source: Sarcos Robotics
