Robot "Learns" To Walk Like A Toddler

[matcom]

<snip>

WASHINGTON -- The difference between man and machine is shrinking. Scientists have developed a robot that "learns" to walk like a toddler, improving its step and balance with every stride.

The walking robot looks more like a moving Erector set than a human being, but the machine has the unmistakable gait of a person strolling along. The robot uses its curved feet and motorized ankles to spring its legs forward, its arms swinging at every step to help with balance.

Researchers on Thursday showed off the learning, walking robot, along with two less-advanced models, at the national meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. A report on the research appears this week in the journal Science.

The machines use what the researchers called a "passive-dynamic design" that closely mimics the way humans walk. Earlier robots required powerful machines to stroll, with each leg, knee and ankle requiring motorized assistance. The effort requires a lot of energy.

The passive dynamic design uses gravity, along with muscle-like springs and motors. The energy required is just a fraction of that needed by other walking robots, said Andy Ruina, a Cornell University researcher.

http://www.wftv.com/irresistible/4208859/detail.html

[mhr]

1. "passive-dynamic design" - Engineer Mumbo Jumbo

I can criticize because I are one.

[AuntiBush]

2. Amazing!

To think, a "robot" better than the Chimp!

[Jamastiene]

3. Now,

if we can get our president to think like one, we'll be a step closer to getting him to think at all... :evilgrin:

I have always wanted an android already programmed to do certain mundane chores, like dishes, listening to me blather on and on, etc. But I would like one that is programmable so I can teach it to play musical instruments and smile and look like I want it to look and laugh and well...

Okay, I admit it, I want to have one to make into a virutal friend.