Ordering the Unitree G1 Basic Humanoid Robot
On June 6, Lutsk National Technical University placed an order for a Unitree G1 Basic humanoid robot from the company Gemobud LLC. The total cost of the purchase came to 1.26 million hryvnias, excluding VAT. Manufactured by the Chinese firm Hangzhou Yushu Technology Co., Ltd., operating under the Unitree Robotics brand, this robot is intended for educational, scientific, and engineering tasks.
Model Specifications
The Basic version is the entry-level model of this humanoid and notably lacks several components:
- LIDAR
- Depth camera
- Speakers
- Microphones
- Finger actuators
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules
Weighing approximately 35 kg and standing 130 cm tall, the Unitree G1 Basic features 23 degrees of freedom and can handle a payload of up to 2 kg per arm. Its battery has a capacity of at least 9,000 mAh, providing up to 2 hours of operation as claimed by the manufacturer. The device comes with an eight-month warranty.
The base price for this model, excluding taxes and shipping, is roughly $13,500 (about 606,000 hryvnias). For context, in March 2023, the first Phantom MK-1 humanoid robots, developed by the American company Foundation, were delivered to Ukraine.
Renowned technology expert Mike Leblanc has noted that 'humanoid robots can help military personnel carry out dangerous tasks.'
This development signals a growing interest in robotics within Ukraine, especially in academic and research settings. Universities are increasingly looking to integrate cutting-edge technology into their curricula, enhancing the competitiveness of their educational programs. As humanoid robots begin to see military applications, their advancement could significantly impact national security and defense capabilities.
As universities like Lutsk National Technical University invest in advanced robotics, it's worth noting that the global landscape is also evolving. Recently, China introduced a humanoid service robot designed for the hospitality sector, showcasing the increasing role of robotics in various industries. This trend highlights the expanding capabilities and potential applications of humanoid robots, both in educational settings and beyond.