In movies, robots look like us and can do everything we can—only
they’re smarter, stronger, faster, and have questionable motives.
Robotics firm,
Boston Dynamics,
may have a lot to do with whether or not such a future comes to be. The
firm’s most recent video shows its Atlas robot navigating a field of
rubble with human-like dexterity.
In the past, Atlas and its predecessor, Petman, could maintain their
balance when pushed, walk, do pushups, and squat. But walking on rocks
is a new feat. Until now, the only Boston Dynamics robots navigating
uneven terrain were the
four-legged kind.
The feedback and systems control required to stay balanced as the
forces underfoot change with each step is impressive. The robot uses a
variety of sensor data to maneuver its upper body and arms to stay
upright.
One imagines Atlas isn’t far from graduating the lab. Though the robot is headless and handless here, the
final design calls for an articulated head with stereo cameras and a laser range finder and sensate hands capable of using human tools.
In its current form, there’s no mistaking Atlas for a human. But its
sibling, Petman, caused something of a stir earlier this year when,
decked out in chamo and gas mask,
it strode
into our apocalyptic nightmares. With all the wiring hidden, Petman’s
movements were mechanical—but only just. Really. It’s a pretty cool
video. (Check it out below.)
So, is Boston Dynamics building a droid army for
Darpa? Of course not. The robots’ capabilities and potential military applications are still limited…for now.
end quote from:
singularityhub.com/.../boston-dynamics-atlas-robot-walks-like-a-human-...
Oct 7, 2013 - Robotics
firm, Boston Dynamics, may have a lot to do with whether or not such a
future comes to be. The firm's most recent video shows its Atlas ...
www.space.com/21980-nasa-robots-darpa-robotics-challenge.htmlJul 16, 2013 - Robots Competing in the DARPA Robotics Challenge ... the first physical trials of the competition at the Homestead-Miami Speedway in Florida, ...
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