Smart quadruped robotics: a systematic review of design, control, sensing and perception

Legged robots in general, and quadrupedal structures in particular, have demonstrated high potential as a means of locomotion, possessing the ability to carry out tasks that traditional vehicles are unable to accomplish. In the last thirty years, legged locomotion technology has been advanced globally, leading to the creation of numerous equipment and techniques. This systematic review explores research studies from different academic databases, i.e. Web of Science, Scopus, and IEEE, to provide an overview of recent innovations and future directions in quadruped robotics. Advanced sensory systems, optimal structural design and smart control mechanisms are the key elements for enabling autonomous navigation and agile interaction of these robots with their environment. This systematic review explores the interconnected domains of structural design, control systems, and sensory integration. The analysis aims to identify common research themes and emerging trends by employing keyword co-occurrence and machine learning clustering techniques, providing a detailed understanding of the research landscape.