Just last week, the Pentagon’s research division — DARPA — set a new speed record
with its four-legged running robot Cheetah. Now it is testing out
another one of its robots on four legs — this one designed not for
speed, but for carrying gear.
DARPA’s AlphaDog by Boston Dynamics (also known as prototype LS3 —
Legged Squad Support Systems) had been previously tested outdoors, but
this trial, according to DARPA’s release, demonstrates not only greater mobility but more stealthy sound control and “follow the leader” capabilities.The ultimate goal of LS3 is to act as a “pack mule” robot that can
“unburden dismounted squad members by carrying their gear, autonomously
following them through rugged terrain, and interpreting verbal and
visual commands.”
According to its description
in its latest demonstration video, LS3 can carry up to 400 pounds,
travel 20 miles without refueling and follows humans using a sensor
system.