Hyundai Unveils MobED, a 'Smart' Robotic Cart for Versatile Uses
Spot and the rest of the Boston Dynamics family may grab all the attention, but Hyundai has its own robotics division, separate from the company it acquired earlier, in 2021. Hyundai Motor Group has introduced the Mobile Eccentric Droid (MobED), a brand-new, innovative platform for personal mobility that uses advanced robotics technology.
The MobED cart has an unusual design. It is a flat rectangular body with four large wheels that have independent, complex suspension, which keeps the platform in an optimal position and ensures stable movement even on slopes and uneven roads. This suspension lets the platform move through complex urban environments by freely adjusting the wheels and steering angles.
“We developed the MobED platform to overcome the limitations of existing home assistant robots and service robots, while maximizing ease of use in cities by significantly improving the platform's overall mobility. We are also looking ahead to assess how potential MobED users will expand their needs and continue to use this type of technology.”
Featuring innovative technologies, including an advanced "eccentric wheel" drive and high-tech steering, braking and height control systems, MobED adapts and maintains an optimal position on various road surfaces and in different conditions. Three motors mounted on each wheel provide power and precise wheel control, and also adjust the overall position of the cart.
It remains an open question what exactly MobED will be used for. Hyundai calls the device a "mobile platform," and its official press release says the company wants to sell MobED to industrial partners, who would then adapt the device for specific use cases. Judging by Hyundai's eye-catching videos, the robotic cart could be useful in a wide variety of applications. MobED could become a personal suitcase, similar to Gitamini, making it easy to carry parcels and shopping. Future versions may be strong enough to carry people.
The thoughtful design of each wheel, with its individual amplifier and steering control system, enables spinning in place and omnidirectional movement, providing high mobility even in tight spaces. The eccentric-mechanism position control system also stabilizes the device by adjusting the height of each wheel to the surrounding environment. MobED's 30-centimeter pneumatic tires further help absorb shocks and vibrations.
MobED measures 67 cm long, 60 cm wide and 33 cm high, and weighs 50 kg. Its wheelbase expands to 65 cm for optimal stability at high speeds, then shrinks to 45 cm for low-speed maneuvers in more complex conditions. The maximum speed is 30 km/h, allowing it to travel about four hours without recharging with a 2 kWh battery.
However, it is still unclear exactly how the robot navigates. Hyundai does not mention sensors at all, whether cameras or lidar, and does not say whether it comes with any autonomous driving software.
Designed for complete versatility and modularity, MobED can be used for various applications depending on the equipment installed on it. The company expects the platform's adjustable wheels, compact body and low vibration level to make the device an optimal technology solution for delivery, service and equipment assistance. Thanks to its exceptional maneuverability, the platform can also be used for service robots that can operate both indoors and outdoors.
MobED could be used as a mobility device for elderly people or people with disabilities, once the platform is enlarged enough for people to ride on it safely. It could also be used as a stroller or a recreational vehicle.
Hyundai suggests that, besides working as a service robot, MobED could help in places such as the film industry, where film crews could mount their equipment on the platform. The device could also be used for other purposes where stability is important.
Interestingly, Hyundai is not the only carmaker involved in this kind of general-purpose robotics. Toyota and Honda are investing heavily in this area, developing devices that may one day work in nursing homes or serve as personal mobility devices. Clearly, as self-driving technology advances, many automakers see new applications for this recently acquired expertise. MobED is just the latest example of this trend.
Hyundai Motor Group will take part in CES 2022, which will take place January 5-8, 2022. At the event, Hyundai will present its vision of the future through robotics. MobED will also be displayed at the company's booth. However, Hyundai did not say whether it plans to commercialize MobED.
