Diden Robotics develops magnetic climbing robot for shipyards

South Korean company Diden Robotics has developed the ‘Diden Spider’, a four-legged robot designed to navigate the challenging environments of shipyards. Unlike traditional robots limited to flat surfaces, the Diden Spider utilizes magnetic legs to climb vertical steel walls and walk upside down on ceilings.

The robot is capable of carrying up to 30 kilograms and can maneuver through narrow openings, complex structures, and uneven surfaces. It is designed to perform high-risk tasks such as welding and inspections in areas that would typically require workers to use ladders, safety harnesses, or other specialized climbing equipment.

Samsung Heavy Industries has participated in testing the technology. While still in the development phase, the robot demonstrates potential for broader industrial applications, including maintenance and repair in large-scale metal structures where human access is difficult or hazardous.