Choose an inspection robot based first on the routes it will actually take and the measurements it needs to make, rather than on individual top speed or payload figures. For recurring inspections, its navigation, sensors and data transfer all need to work together. In areas where there is a risk of explosion, you also need evidence that the specific configuration is suitable for the classified zone. Start your risk assessment before purchasing, and check your data protection requirements if cameras or microphones could capture people.
For maintenance teams and site managers whose routes include stairs, grating, narrow passages or uneven, wet floors. The key question is whether the robot can negotiate these routes safely and reliably in the conditions at your site.
For businesses that want to collect visual, temperature, acoustic or gas readings at fixed points and feed them into their operational or maintenance systems. The sensor package, payload integration and data formats need to suit the specific measurement task.
For operators with areas where there is a risk of explosion, or routes where cameras and microphones could capture employees or other people. In these cases, the risk assessment, checks on the specific product configuration and a data protection plan for the intended use should all form part of the initial selection process.
First, measure the route and define the readings you need. Then check the safety measures and ongoing operation for that specific use.
| Criterion | What to check before buying | Who should pay particular attention |
|---|---|---|
| Route and mobility | Measure narrow sections, steps, grating and floor grip; arrange a test run with the intended payload. | If inspection points are only accessible via uneven or narrow routes, you need to be confident the robot can complete the whole journey, there and back. This is the main route-related concern for around 33% of prospective buyers. |
| Sensors and data | Define the measurements and points to be checked; confirm that mounting, power supply and data transfer are compatible with your existing systems. | You need more than just images: you need useful readings collected at the same points each time. This is the top priority for around 27% of prospective buyers. |
| Safety and data protection | Start the risk assessment before making your choice. In hazardous areas, check the zone and approved configuration; if people may be captured, check your data protection requirements. | Where there is a risk of explosion or people may be captured, you first need to ensure the intended operation can be carried out safely and lawfully. This is the leading concern for around 20% of prospective buyers. |
| Ongoing operation | Test mission duration with the sensor payload and enough battery reserve for the return journey; agree on charging arrangements, maintenance and service support. | If you need to fit several inspections into your operational schedule, you need predictable charging, maintenance and support times. Around 20% of prospective buyers put this operational capability first. |
Payload, surface and powered sensors all affect operating conditions. Boston Dynamics gives different typical run times for Spot with and without a powered payload, and notes that high or off-centre loads can reduce stability.
Arrange an acceptance test on the actual floor surfaces, at the measurement points and under the expected wireless conditions, using the full payload — and include the return journey.
If the robot cannot complete the mission in these conditions, you may need to change the route, sensor set-up or charging schedule.
ANYbotics describes ANYmal X as ATEX/IECEx-certified up to Zone 1 IIB. This does not mean it is suitable for other zones or for every sensor fitted afterwards. An IP rating does not answer the question of Ex suitability either.
Check the certificates and approved configurations against the documented area classification and risk assessment.
Camera and microphone equipment may also capture employees or other people. Germany’s data protection authorities have highlighted the significant impact of video surveillance, so you need to clarify the purpose and legal basis for the specific recording.
Consider less intrusive ways of collecting data, and set out access controls, retention periods and information requirements before deployment. Involve your data protection team and employee representatives where relevant to your operations.
Access controls and data storage and deletion processes also need to be managed during ongoing operation.
The German Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health emphasises the need for a task-specific risk assessment. Guidance available through the institute recommends starting this before selecting and purchasing work equipment.
When choosing a robot, take account of routes, pedestrian traffic, charging areas, set-up, maintenance and fault scenarios.
Hazards identified late may mean changing routes or adding barriers.
ANYmal is designed for inspection missions in industrial facilities. The manufacturer specifically describes ANYmal X as suitable for sites with Ex requirements.
Spot is worth considering as a modular platform if inspection sensors and integration with existing data processes are key to your choice.
B2 is a platform to consider for testing longer routes and challenging surfaces with additional equipment.
Start before selecting and purchasing the inspection robot. Guidance available through the German Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health recommends taking this early approach. For the planned use, assess factors including the route, pedestrian traffic, charging area, faults and maintenance.
No. Suitability must match the classified zone and the specific robot and sensor configuration. ANYbotics describes ANYmal X as certified up to Zone 1 IIB, but you should still check the relevant certificates, operating limits and approved accessories for your area.
Before deployment, clarify the purpose, legal basis and scope of any recording of people. Section 26 of the German Federal Data Protection Act (BDSG) sets out requirements for processing employee data. You should also check access, retention periods, information requirements and the involvement of the relevant parties in your specific workplace.
Ask for the charging and battery procedures, inspections, software and security updates, spare parts, training and response times for the system on offer to be set out in writing. Test mission duration with your sensor payload: Boston Dynamics lists different typical run times for Spot with and without a powered payload, while Unitree describes a swappable battery and optional autonomous charging solutions for B2.