March 06, 2006

Robotic Pack Mule

The New Scientist reports :
A nimble, four-legged robot is so surefooted it can recover its balance even after being given a hefty kick. The machine, which moves like a cross between a goat and a pantomime horse, is being developed as a robotic pack mule for the US military.
Check out the video here.

Now, I actually think this is extremely cool and far be it from me to question new gadgets, but.... if the military really needs 'pack mules' then why don't they, um, you know, use mules? Like real ones.

The current model of the robot can carry 40 Kg and can cross somewhat rough terrain. While it's just a R&D prototype, it's not stacking up too well against the flesh & blood type so far. Posted by richard at March 6, 2006 01:20 AM

Comments

Because I see oil company conspiracies everywhere, I'm guessing the robot runs on 93 gasoline.

Posted by: Phutatorius at March 6, 2006 11:23 AM

You've got to be kidding me, quick dick: you'd prefer to put american asses in harms way than robots? :)

Posted by: Michael Weiksner at March 7, 2006 01:02 AM