Computer scientists have developed robots that have ability
to move over rough surfaces even. Apart from just walking these agile robots
can run on uneven terrains thus making human navigation in harsh areas simpler.
December 2013 Google acquired a company Boston Dynamics and made
a humanoid robot named “Meet Atlas”. It has the ability to cross flat and rough
terrains like a human does without toppling over. Previously so
me robots like
Honda’s “ASIMO” and Sony’s “QRIO” were able to walk but couldn't respond
quickly to changes in balance and respond accordingly. But Meet Atlas being far
better requires much shorter time to balance with ease.
In some cases where humans cannot give their best to rescue
people like in a situation of building set on a fire, such strong robots can
help the rescue process speedup without any life losses. If further
enhancements are made in the circuitry of these agile robots such master pieces
can help the disable and the aged ones in their homes accomplishing their
tasks.
Marc Raibert, co-founder of Boston Dynamics ensured that all
such machines were “dynamically balanced” – being able to stay upright during continuous
motion. As a matter of fact one-legged robot was built by a professor at
Carnegie Mellon University for his assistance in laboratory tasks.
The reason Meet Atlas out class other robots is high powered
hydraulics in its body keeping it steady while walking on debris, treadmill and
can balance on one leg holding a 20 pound ball. Because of the sensors
incorporated in Atlas’s machine it can senor its own instability and responds
quickly to get back to the stable position.
Despite of so many features Atlas is not ready for home or
office purposes as it’s too large to give space to, its diesel engine is
external and creates noise and its titanium limbs move dangerously.