Russian Students Teach Robotic Dog to Climb Stairs
Updated robot dog platform unveiled at Moscow State University
Researchers at the Research Institute of Mechanics at Moscow State University have unveiled an updated version of a robotic dog – an open, controllable platform used by students to design and test walking robots. The latest upgrade enables the robot to climb stairs, according to the Rossiya 1 TV channel.
The robot can move in various modes, including crawling close to the ground, which could be useful in search-and-rescue operations or accessing confined spaces. It can jump, run, and even fold its legs to switch to a wheeled mode to conserve energy, requiring only two wheels. The robot is highly stable: even after hitting obstacles or flipping over, it can recover and continue moving.
Rescue and Interaction
According to Anton Rogachev, a lead engineer at the institute, the system uses an algorithm that allows the robot to navigate obstacles where simple walking or running is not possible.
The robot can also answer questions, pointing to a wide range of potential applications – from greeting visitors to locating people under debris and transporting objects.
