#Japan #Tokyo #Crawler Robot #CuboRex #CuGo

CuboRex Launches CuGo V4.5

In an exciting move for the robotics industry, CuboRex, a leading company based in Katsushika, Tokyo, is set to launch its latest crawler robot development platform, the CuGo V4.5, on May 19, 2026. This innovative model builds upon the successes of its predecessor, the CuGo V4, and is designed to cater primarily to research institutions, universities, and robotic development enterprises focusing on Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs).

Enhancements in CuGo V4.5

The CuGo V4.5 brings significant improvements over the previous version, particularly in terms of speed and adaptability for practical applications. Some of the key enhancements include:

1. Increased Speed: The new model boasts a maximum speed of approximately 4.4 km/h, nearly 2.4 times faster than the CuGo V4's top speed of 1.8 km/h. Designed to meet the demands of logistic and transportation applications, this speed enhancement is crucial for real-world testing and implementation. For safety, the default shipping speed is set to 3.6 km/h but can be adjusted up to the maximum limit with a specific program.

2. Flat Deck Design: The CuGo V4.5 features a redesigned flat loading platform (dimensions of 500x380x85mm) by relocating the control box from the top to the underside. This modification not only improves the design flexibility for mounting robotic arms, LiDAR, and containers but also accommodates a higher loading area, enhancing customization for various applications.

3. External Battery Compatibility: Another innovative feature is the added port for external battery supply. This will allow for a longer operational runtime, significantly improving the flexibility in power management and continuous operation in demanding environments, while still being compatible with the standard LiFePO4 24V 6Ah battery.

4. Wireless Control: The integration of the Raspberry Pi Pico 2W with Bluetooth capabilities allows wireless control via ROS programs, paving the way for a cable-free development environment. This advancement supports seamless integration with ROS 2 and Navigation2 stacks, further simplifying the development process.

5. Stability Improvement: With a reduced height of just 255mm (which is 65mm lower than CuGo V4), the CuGo V4.5 achieves a lower center of gravity, enhancing its stability while operating over uneven surfaces or inclines, which is vital for safety during operations.

Background of Development

CuboRex recognized the growing demand for reliable and robust crawler platforms in various sectors, including logistics, manufacturing, agriculture, and infrastructure inspection. Feedback from research and development environments pointed to a lack of dependable base platforms, which served as a bottleneck for progress. In response, the CuGo V4.5 was created, aiming to accelerate the development cycles from prototyping to pre-production evaluations for AGV applications.

Specifications Comparison: CuGo V4 vs. V4.5

(Note: The reduction in waterproof rating from IP65 to IP54 is due to the design change for the flat loading area.)

Target Users and Applications

The primary users of the CuGo V4.5 will include:

• - Robotics research laboratories at universities and research institutions focusing on AGV, AMR, and autonomous mobile robot projects.
• - Prototype and proof-of-concept development teams in robotic development companies and startups.
• - Engineers involved in developing robots for logistics, manufacturing, agriculture, and infrastructure inspection.
• - Developers working on autonomous systems utilizing ROS 2.

The anticipated applications for the CuGo V4.5 encompass:

• - Serving as a foundational platform for the development of AGVs and AMRs.
• - Prototyping autonomous mobile robots using ROS 2 and Navigation2 stacks.
• - Conducting experimental tests for transport robots within factory and logistics warehouse settings.

Product Overview

• - Product Name: CuGo V4.5
• - Launch Date: May 19, 2026
• - Price: ¥900,000 (excluding tax) / ¥990,000 (including tax)
• - Included Items: Charger, wireless remote controller, user manual.
• - Control Software: ROS 2, Arduino (available on GitHub).
• - Purchase Method: Reservations available through the online store at cuborex.myshopify.com.
• - Product Page: CuGo V4.5 Product

Key Specifications

• - Dimensions (Body): 561 × 590 × 255 mm
• - Payload Dimensions: 500 × 380 × 85 mm (customizable)
• - Weight: 27 kg (body only)
• - Maximum Speed: Approximately 4.4 km/h (default setting: 3.6 km/h)
• - Payload Capacity: Up to 80 kg
• - Continuous Operation Time: About 1 hour (80 kg load at max speed) to a maximum of 3 hours (no load at low speed)
• - Waterproof Rating: IP54
• - Battery: LiFePO4 24V 6Ah (compatible with external batteries)
• - Climbing Ability: Up to 20° (60 kg load)
• - Obstacle Crossing: Up to 7.0 cm (40 kg load)
• - Controller: CuboRex Vehicle Controller + Raspberry Pi Pico 2W
• - Communication: USB / UART / Bluetooth (planned).

Company Profile

• - Company Name: CuboRex
• - Founded: March 31, 2016
• - CEO: Masato Kakazu
• - Address: 2-6-2 Higashinokoiwa, Katsushika, Tokyo 124-0023
• - Business Description: Manufacturing and selling crawler units and robot development platforms.
• - Website: CuboRex