iStruct, the robot-monkey that descends from man

German engineers at the DFKI (Artificial Intelligence Research Centre) are developing a gorilla robot capable of walking (forwards, backwards, sideways and diagonally) and balancing on a moving object. This is the iStruct (Intelligent Structures for Mobile Robots) gorilla that walks.

This newcomer to the robotic galaxy moves on four mechanical legs and has the particularity of being able to keep its balance on inclined surfaces. It weighs 18 kilograms, is powered by a lithium-polymer battery and is packed with sensors and accelerometers that allow it to walk almost 'normally' on all fours. He is able to adapt his movements to an inclined surface in order to move while maintaining his balance. 

For the moment, scientists have not yet revealed the missions that iStruct could fulfil, but it is easy to think that the concept of a balanced displacement could be taken up again later. Perhaps the creators of drones are trying to make terminators for us, we already have the speed of the cat, the agility of the monkey, when will we have the intelligence of a human?

The objective of the project is to develop a robotic system and biologically inspired structural components that will effectively improve locomotion and mobility characteristics. In this case, the biological inspiration comes from the monkey (although a certain resemblance to the dog can also be detected).

This project is developing an "artificial spine" which should improve the locomotion and mobility characteristics of the robot. In addition, various actuators and sensors are being developed with the aim of creating a biomechanical system capable of moving over difficult terrain. It is also possible, although it is not a priority at the moment, to allow the robot to rise and stand on its two hind legs (like a monkey) and thus allow it to use its two front limbs as a means of gripping to manipulate objects.

We're not too far from the robot "Amee" from the sci-fi movie... Red Planet of Antony Hoffman... 

{Jacuzzi on}