For regular industrial inspection routes, an integrated inspection platform may be suitable. If you want to add your own sensor packages, consider a modular platform; a development platform is more suited to supported integration projects. The key factors are the measurements you need, the routes the robot will actually cover, how data is handed over and the complete configuration. Whatever the procurement model, risk assessment, safe deployment and staff training remain the responsibility of the business.
If you need to capture recurring inspection points using cameras and other measurement sensors, the data output must fit into your operational processes. Stadtwerke Münster reported in 2024 on a robot dog used for technical monitoring at a power station. This is an example of how one was used, not proof that it will be suitable for every site.
If changing surfaces, obstacles or confined spaces affect your choice, the complete configuration must be suitable for the routes the robot will actually cover. The German Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health lists collisions, crushing and overturning among the possible hazards associated with mobile work equipment.
If you want to connect your own sensors and software, documented interfaces and the scope of supply are key. Boston Dynamics sets out the technical requirements for custom payloads, while Unitree lists expansion options for the Go2-W family. These family-level specifications do not automatically confirm the equipment supplied with every EDU variant.
First, decide what measurements you need at each inspection point. Then check whether the configuration on offer suits your routes, site processes and operational requirements.
| Requirement | What to check before buying | Who should pay particular attention |
|---|---|---|
| Usable measurement data | Measurement type and sensor for each inspection point; sensors included and any supporting hardware required. | If you need condition data rather than just images of the surroundings, the ability to take measurements is a priority. Around 28% of consumers list this as their main concern. |
| Handling inspection routes | Test the configuration on representative routes, taking account of the surface, obstacles and fitted payload. | If your routes include uneven surfaces or obstacles, the complete configuration needs to be suitable. Around 22% of consumers put this first. |
| Route operation and data handover | Clarify how missions and analysis are managed; ask for a demonstration of data export and transfer to the target system. | If regular inspection rounds need to fit into existing processes, ease of operation and a usable data handover matter. Around 22% of consumers focus on this. |
| Safe operation and data protection | Assess the robot, sensor setup and working environment together; if people may be recorded, check the purpose, access arrangements and data storage plan. | If operational approval or the possible recording of people is a priority, safe deployment planning is central. Around 17% of consumers put this first. |
| Services included after delivery | Specify commissioning, training, software, infrastructure and technical support separately in the quotation. | If you need to plan responsibilities and the longer-term scope of operation, it is particularly important to define what is included. Around 11% of consumers list this as their main concern. |
A platform on its own will not necessarily answer the measurement question you need to address. Boston Dynamics says that certain acoustic sensors used with Spot require additional compatible hardware.
Compare complete measurement configurations and ask for a sample measurement at your inspection points.
A risk assessment must cover both the work equipment and the actual working environment. The German Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health lists collisions, crushing and overturning among the possible hazards associated with mobile work equipment.
Assess the intended configuration at the site where it will be used, and put the resulting protective measures in place before use. The Gesetze im Internet website sets out the relevant obligations under Section 5 of the ArbSchG and Sections 3 and 5 of the BetrSichV.
Specifications for the Go2-W family do not prove that every EDU variant on offer includes the same sensors or features.
Ask for the model, product number, sensors, development access and included services for the variant you are ordering to be confirmed in writing.
Procurement, training, software provision and technical support are separate services and are not automatically included together.
Compare the same configuration and service period, and agree who is responsible for operation, maintenance and support.
ANYmal is an integrated platform for industrial inspections. The manufacturer describes ANYmal X as a separate explosion-protected version.
Spot is a modular platform with documented payload and integration interfaces.
Go2-W is a wheel-legged platform; the German Go2W-EDU product page is aimed at teaching and research.
Joybuy’s selection of mobile robot platforms for industrial inspection tasks.
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The product title lists industrial inspection as a use case. Before buying, check that the configuration on offer supports your measurement tasks and operational processes.
The title specifies 360° panoramic vision, SLAM navigation, a top speed of 4,7 m/s and a battery life of 90 minutes.
The product description also lists LiDAR, a camera and obstacle avoidance. It states that secondary development is not supported.
Before using the robot at work, you will need to carry out a site-specific risk assessment, ensure it can be used safely and provide training for the task. The Gesetze im Internet website lists, among other provisions, Section 5 of the ArbSchG and Sections 3, 5 and 12 of the BetrSichV.
For each inspection point, define a condition you need to check and ask for the appropriate measurement to be demonstrated. ANYbotics lists visual, thermal and acoustic sensors for ANYmal, as well as optional gas detection; according to Boston Dynamics, Spot supports modular payloads. For the Sorama L642 and Fluke SV600 sensors, Boston Dynamics specifies Spot Cam 2 or Core I/O as a requirement.
Assess the robot, sensor setup and working environment together, then decide what measures are needed. Possible mechanical hazards include collisions, crushing and overturning; the German Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health covers these risks in relation to mobile work equipment. Specific distances, speeds and access rules must suit the conditions at the site.
No. Manufacturer training does not automatically replace task-specific instruction provided by the employer. Under Section 12 of the BetrSichV, instruction is required before the equipment is first used, then regularly and at least once a year. The date and names of those instructed must be recorded in writing. The Gesetze im Internet website provides the full legislation.
Before use, check the purpose, legal basis, scope of the data, access arrangements and storage plan. The North Rhine-Westphalia Commissioner for Data Protection and Freedom of Information explains information requirements for video surveillance and when a data protection impact assessment is required based on risk. An assessment must be carried out in advance if the processing is likely to pose a high risk to the rights and freedoms of natural persons.
No. The IP rating and explosion-protected version are separate selection criteria. ANYbotics describes ANYmal as IP67-rated and ANYmal X separately as an explosion-protected version for up to Zone 1. Check whether the specific version is suitable for the intended area and the conditions of use there.