Key points
- Dual battery bays enable autonomous powerpack replacement
- Swapping tech reduces downtime on industrial production lines
- Uses vision sensors to detect fully charged batteries
- Human-like design with real-time status display included
ISLAMABAD: Until now, humanoid robots have either needed to remain constantly plugged in or pause work to recharge their batteries. UBTech is set to change that with the introduction of the Walker S2, a robot equipped with dual battery bays and the ability to autonomously swap out its own powerpacks.
The concept of battery swapping is already common in electric transport—where a depleted battery can be exchanged for a fully charged one in seconds—and UBTech is now applying that idea to robotics, according to UBTech Robotics.
The Walker S2 can identify when a battery is running low, walk over to a swap station in an industrial setting, rotate its upper body into place, and use built-in tools on its wrists to remove the drained battery and insert a new one.
Swapping functions
In the demo video, the S2’s usual gripper-style hands are replaced by specialised tools designed for battery handling. In future production versions, UBTech will likely integrate a system that balances both manipulation and swapping functions.
This feature significantly reduces downtime. Instead of halting work for long charging sessions, the S2 can quickly replace its own battery and return to the production line within minutes.
Swap stations on-site will keep batteries fully charged and monitor their health. Units showing signs of reduced performance can be flagged for maintenance or replacement.
Releasing full technical specifications
UBTech has not yet released full technical specifications, but it’s expected that the S2 will use vision sensors to detect indicators—such as a green light—on fully charged battery packs. It is being developed to operate autonomously in varied, fast-paced industrial environments.
Like earlier Walker models, the S2 is designed with a natural, human-like walking style and stands approximately 170 cm tall.
A colour display below its sensor array provides real-time status updates for nearby human workers. An emergency stop button is located on the back for safety.
More details, including specifications, pricing, and launch date, are expected soon.
