The field of robotics is rapidly evolving, with “robot dogs” (quadrupedal machines) emerging as versatile solutions for navigating challenging or dangerous terrains where wheeled or tracked robots struggle.
xTerra Robotics, a deep-tech startup from IIT Kanpur, is leading this innovation in India. Their creation, the Svan M2, stands as India’s first commercial quadruped research platform. With the introduction of Orion AI V2.0, the Svan M2 has undergone a revolutionary upgrade to its control stack, redefining autonomous capabilities for real-world scenarios.
The Unparalleled Mobility of Quadrupedal Robots
For decades, engineers have sought to replicate the agility of biological organisms. While wheeled and tracked robots perform well on flat surfaces, they struggle with stairs, rubble, or unpredictable environments.
- 01. Precise Foot Placement: Enables stepping over obstacles and maneuvering through tight spaces.
- 02. Dynamic Balance: Maintains stability under external forces or shifting weight.
- 03. Human Safety: Reduces the need for human intervention in risky environments like search-and-rescue.
Svan M2: Pioneering Indian Engineering
Lightweight & Robust
Carbon fiber frame weighing ~11kg with a 5kg payload capacity.
Proprietary Drive
Quadrature Drive (QDD) actuators for precise, dynamic movement.
Indigenous Soul
85% of parts manufactured within India, supporting “Make in India”.
Advanced Sensing
Integrated IMU, joint encoders, HD cameras, and optional LiDAR/Thermal.
Orion AI V2.0: The Intelligent Core
Orion AI V2.0 introduces Proprioceptive Intelligence. Much like a living creature, the Svan M2 now comprehends its own body state, external forces, and dynamic interactions with the ground in real-time.
1.0 m/s – Consistent Velocity
18° – Slope Traversal
15 cm – Obstacle Clearance
2 rad/s – Rotational Speed
Real-World Transformation
Industrial Inspection
From oil refineries to nuclear plants, the Svan M2 navigates hazardous grating and pipes with thermal sensors to detect leaks before they become disasters.
Security & Defense
Quiet, autonomous patrolling in urban or foliage-dense environments ensures persistent surveillance without putting human personnel in harm’s way.
Indigenous Deep-Tech Milestone
The Svan M2 serves as a flagship example of Indian innovation. By building a robust local supply chain and cultivating unparalleled expertise in advanced robotics, xTerra Robotics is fostering a self-reliant technology ecosystem.
“The evolution of the Svan M2 with Orion AI V2.0 is more than an update; it’s a pivotal moment for Indian robotics.”
The Svan M2, with its enhanced intelligence, is positioned to lead the charge into a new era of autonomy, promising a future of seamless collaboration between robots and humans in the world’s most challenging environments.
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