Q-Bot Drive Module

Q-Bot provides robotic services to the built environment, that allow easier, cheaper, safer and
more effective execution of tasks than is currently possible with existing practises. The
robotic systems developed by Q-Bot empower operators, making them more efficient and
productive; enable construction companies to offer new services to their clients; and helps
create buildings that are energy efficient, cheaper to run and more comfortable.
The initial application is the retrofit of insulation to UK buildings at a fraction of the current
cost, and with none of the hassle of traditional methods. The patent pending technology and
process uses a robot to intelligently apply insulation under floors, an environment which is
currently inaccessible for human operatives without prohibitive disruption and expense.
Insulating the floor with Q-Bot gets rid of cold draughts, makes cold floors warmer and lags
hot water pipes, as well as saving an estimated £150 - £300/year in lower energy bills for a
typical home. By combining robotics and advanced tools with one of the most pressing needs;
upgrading our existing buildings to improve energy efficiency, Q-Bot provides a real, scalable
and cost effective solution to meeting targets for CO2 reduction and affordable warmth
without the hassle of traditional methods.
One of the key components of the robotics platform is the development of a compact and
reliable drive module that can maximise traction over difficult terrain while maintaining a
very small form factor. A novel design is proposed that has much higher power density than
other robotics and commercial systems at this scale. Therefore the objective of this project is
to develop a prototype drive module, including its electrical and control systems that can
operate in harsh environments and quantify its performance.