A reader pointed out that the PIGORASS four-legged robot I mentioned yesterday was somewhat flimsy (I don’t agree) compared to this more sturdy offering from Boston Dynamics. They call it the BigDog and it will most probably eat your real dog for lunch (it can be weaponized).
Watching the video is somewhat eerie, because you can see Boston Dymanics’ BigDog climbing a forested hill, all by itself. It can carry heavy loads and is powered by an engine that drives the hydraulic actuators needed for locomotion. BigDog is the size of a large dog or a small mule: 3 feet in length, 2.5 feet in height, and it weighs about 240lbs.
The onboard computer keeps everything balanced. It can run at 4mph, climb slopes up to 35 degrees, walk across rubble and climb muddy hiking trails. It will also walk in snow and water and can carry a 340lbs payload, which is pretty cool.
Check out more videos of BigDog in action over Boston Dynamics’ YouTube channel.
