Scientists have created a six-legged robot named Hector, who has been modeled on the stick insect.
Hector, the unique robot and the brainchild of German researchers from the Bielefeld University, has now learned how to walk with its first steps being captured on video.
The giant bot Hector has an ultralight exoskeleton and is equipped with sensors, which in turn enable him to walk smoothly like a real insect. Hector is even capable of climbing over objects thanks to its passive elastic joints.
A factor that makes Hector stand out from other bots is the fact that he functions on the basis of a "biologically inspired decentralized reactive control concept" i.e. the Walknet.
The researchers are optimistic that in the near future, Hector could act as a platform for roboticists and biologists alike so that they can use him to test their hypotheses on animal movements.
A major challenge, however, facing researchers in the future is the synthesis of information from the sensors to aid Hector to walk independently when compared to earlier. Researchers will also face the challenge of ensuring maximum movement coordination by the bot which has elastic drives.
As per Professor Dr. Axel Schneider, Hector's elasticity can be compared to the muscle response in biological systems. However, the elasticity by itself is not sufficient to equip the bot to walk in a natural environment that has obstacles.
"The challenge was to develop a control system that would coordinate the movements of its legs in difficult surroundings as well," says Schneider.
Hector currently has 18 joints which equip the bot to adapt to different surfaces that it walks on with ease. The bot also has several cameras and near-range sensors that it deploys to ascertain how to position its body, as well as approach and/or counter a hurdle in its path.
Scientists are hopeful that as part of a project by the Cluster of Excellence Cognitive Interaction Technology (CITEC), come 2017, Hector will pack in more sensors and abilities which will aid the bot in replicating additional insect-like behavior.
Watch Hector take its first steps in the video below.
