LAVER LABS

M2 is the latest version in our mapping robot series, M series. In 2016, we unveiled M1, followed by the upgraded version M1X. M2 has been designed using smooth lines achieved by removing any unnecessary elements. While inheriting the unique identity of the M series, we have also put emotional interactions with people into consideration. We particularly wanted to add a future-oriented feeling to M2 while matching the architectural design, since it will mainly operate in NAVER's 2nd headquarters which is designed as a robot-friendly building.  

Function Expansion, Compact Housing

We have integrated all function related know-how from the previous versions into M2. The primary challenge is successfully implementing the complex hardware requirements in the design. While maintaining the same structural proportions as M1, M2 has been designed with a new form factor that makes its driver part stand out.

Unlike general service robots, various sensors and cameras required for mapping cannot be enclosed inside the robot in the M series. It was important to reduce these complex, visible parts as much as possible. Various hardware specifications have been refined into a simple housing solution and designed using smooth lines.

M2 can also drive outdoors. Whereas M1 and M1X mainly focused on the indoor space, M2’s design has been optimized for mounting parts including the driver, battery, and power supply for movement in various in & outdoor environments. By maximizing the motor wheel turn radius in the 4-wheel drive method, we were able to increase the working radius. As a result, M2 can move more flexibly and stably, collecting collects data from many different spaces.

Smooth and Stable
As mentioned earlier, M2 plays a role in turning the space in our daily lives into digital twin data. Because we didn't want people to feel threatened or pressured by the robot during mapping, we modified the overall size and shape of M2 to make it look more approachable. We’ve also worked on creating a smooth, stable image of the robot by excluding sharp lines so that components such as sensors and cameras can naturally merge into one.

Intuitive Movement 
With the up and down lifting mechanism, M2 is capable of collecting spatial data from a wider perspective compared to the previous version. In order to do so, we divided the form factor into two: the top and the bottom. We've achieved the optimal form factor ratio to add stability to both the driver and body part, before and after lifting. In addition, we designed an optimally sized driver to reduce the sense of intimidation when lifting up and applied interactive lighting on the top cover to divert attention. Similarly, we reduced visual perception of volume by reducing the use of black colors and applying them in 3 different shades. 

The M series is not just the beginning but a part of NAVER LABS' digital twin technology history. As the number of robots that utilize digital twin data increases, we will naturally encounter them in our daily lives. Robot design will also develop to clearly exhibit the robot’s unique identity, while increasing harmony between its functions and human feelings. M2's excellent performance will bring us closer to this future.