Slashdot Mirror
Giant 'Leap' for Robotics
legoburner writes "An AFP article is reporting that Toyota has developed a robot leg that can jump like a human's, an evolution from today's stiff-jointed machines. The leg is a strange-looking standalone device and Toyota claims it will enable robots to jump about, run faster and handle unpaved roads more smoothly."
TFA on a link that does work:
http://www.physorg.com/news77352568.html (google toyota robot leg)
The one-meter (3.3-foot) leg has a joint on its toe letting it jump as high as four centimeters (1.6 inches) by bending and stretching its toe and another knee-like joint, Japan's top automaker said Wednesday.
"This is a basic technology that can be applied to a two-legged robot in future," said a Toyota Motor Corp. spokeswoman.
"It was a difficult step for robots," she said. "But it was made possible after making a number of prototypes."
Besides the joy of jumping about, robots will also be able to run faster and to handle unpaved roads more smoothly, the company said.
Toyota, the world's number two automaker which is expected soon to surpass General Motors, has increasingly taken on robot development.
Toyota humanoids welcomed visitors to the company's pavillion at the 2005 World Expo in Japan, jamming in a brass ensemble and performing hip-hop routines.
You can read the article here, here or here.
I hate to send a slashdotting to such a nice group of guys, but the Big Dog made by Boston Dynamics might be what you are looking for.
http://www.bdi.com/content/sec.php?section=BigDog
While it doesn't have 2 legged operation it does operate in the "falling forward" way of walking. Check out that video where the guy gives it a swift kick to the side and it just sways and regains it's balance. Looks uncannily lifelike.
The link worked when I submitted it over 36 hours ago. Ah well, slow editors, here is an alternate link to the same AFP syndicated story: physorg and also Yahoo.
Warhammer forums