New quadruped robot climbs vertically 50 times faster than rivals

Researchers at the University of Tokyo’s Jouhou System Kougaka Laboratory (JSK) have developed KLEIYN, a quadruped robot capable of climbing vertical walls up to 50 times faster than previous robots. Unlike other climbing robots that rely on grippers or claws, KLEIYN uses a chimney climbing technique, pressing its feet against two opposing walls for support. Its flexible waist joint allows adaptation to varying wall widths, particularly narrow gaps. The robot weighs about 40 pounds (18 kg), measures 2.5 feet (76 cm) in length, and features 13 joints powered by quasi-direct-drive motors for precise movement. KLEIYN’s climbing ability is enhanced through machine learning, specifically Reinforcement Learning combined with a novel Contact-Guided Curriculum Learning method, enabling it to transition smoothly from flat terrain to vertical surfaces. In tests, KLEIYN successfully climbed walls spaced between 31.5 inches (80 cm) and 39.4 inches (