|MIT researchers have developed an algorithm for bounding that they've successfully implemented in a robotic cheetah. The key to the bounding algorithm is in programming each of the robot's legs to exert a certain amount of force in the split second during which it hits the ground, in order to maintain a given speed: In general, the faster the desired speed, the more force must be applied to propel the robot forward. In experiments the robot sprinted up to 10 mph and MIT researchers estimate the robot may eventually reach speeds of up to 30 mph.
MIT's robot cheetah might be limited to a top speed of about ten miles per hour in its current form, but its creators based its unique leg mechanisms on an actual cheetah so eventually this robot should achieve some impressive speeds—and jumping capabilities.
+ More >>