One of the real selling points for potential developers, though, are the array of servos that power the robot's legs, which can operate simultaneously and provide some 40 pounds of lift apiece.

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So, a solar power plant equipped with a QBotix robot will generate power at a levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) that is 8 to 15 percent lower than a power plant with single-axis tracker and 15 to 20 percent lower than a power plan with panels in fixed positions.

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The deal comes as Makani carries out the first fully autonomous flights of robot kites bearing its power-generating propellers.

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One factor that contributes to making a robot autonomous is their power supply.

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The current demonstration implements a tethered solution as the robot's source of power, pumps, gasses and liquids, but future developments may allow for a self-contained system.

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The robot includes everything a serious robot aficionado has got to have, including a full suite of sensors, capable robot arms, and plenty of on-board computing power.

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RTC's new robot, named RIBA-II, overcomes these limitations with added power and functionality.

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The panel on the climbing robot, about the size of a coffee tray, harvested enough power to run a small lawnmower.

ECONOMIST: Monitor