While many wheeled robots are capable of navigating various terrain, their physical design often falls short of meeting the demands required to complete numerous tasks effectively, rendering them ill-suited for a wide range of responsibilities. The KATR’s versatility stems from its extendable legs, which enable it to maintain a spacious cargo deck.
The acronym is actually KTR (Kubota Tractor Robotic), not KATR. The innovative automobile prototype has earned a prestigious CES Innovation Award, specifically created for agricultural and developmental applications.
On a clean, degree-level floor, the KATR rolls smoothly alongside on its four innermost wheels. When navigating sloping or challenging terrain, however, the vehicle cleverly adjusts its height by elevating its four different outermost wheels.
Each wheel sits atop a hydraulically controlled leg that adjusts independently to ensure the robotic’s cargo deck remains level and horizontal. The robotic legs are enabled by a proprietary algorithm that processes real-time data from onboard sensors, allowing for seamless operation.
Each wheel boasts a dedicated electric motor, elevating the robot’s off-road capabilities to new heights.
That stated, the robotic’s major Energy supply options can include a battery pack or a gasoline combustion engine, depending on the application and geographical location. When operating the KATR in a remote location disconnected from the electrical grid, it may be more practical to opt for fuel as the primary energy source.
Kubota Tractor Company
The bot’s load capacity reaches 284 pounds (129 kilograms) and can be equipped with diverse instruments and sensors, enabling applications including supply transportation; discipline knowledge gathering; site maintenance, inspection, and/or surveillance; application of sealants, paints, or other substances in hard-to-reach areas; and agricultural duties such as weeding, pruning, and harvesting.
Kubota has announced its intention to introduce the KATR into the Japanese market through a leasing model, with a target hourly rate of approximately ¥1,980 ($13), effective next year. The corporation is currently evaluating the potential for entering the North American market.
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