Developed by researchers in Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) A four-legged robot equipped with an artificial intelligence system that allows it to automatically adapt to the terrain and choose the most appropriate method of movement, whether walking, running or jumping.
The innovation aims to overcome one of the most prominent challenges of mobile robots, which is dealing with changing environments that may combine stairs, slopes, pits, and uneven surfaces within a short time.
Artificial intelligence controls movement
The research team was led by Professor Hye Won Park from the Department of Mechanical Engineering. The researchers developed a unified control system based on reinforcement learning called APT-RL.
The system allows the robot to combine different movement patterns within one system, instead of relying on separate systems for walking, running and jumping. Thus, the robot can move from one movement to another smoothly, and make the appropriate decision in real time depending on the nature of the ground and the required speed.
Terrain monitoring sensors
The robot uses a group of sensors to analyze the surrounding environment, including a depth camera that provides three-dimensional information about objects and distances, in addition to lidar devices that use laser pulses to monitor obstacles and terrain at greater distances.
By integrating this data, the robot is able to build a perception of the surrounding environment and adjust its movement instantly without the need for human intervention.
Tests in difficult environments
The researchers tested the system on a robot KAIST HOUND In a range of indoor and outdoor environments, including grass, stairs, slopes, forest paths full of roots and branches, and uneven terrain.
Tests showed the robot’s ability to automatically choose the appropriate movement style, including jogging and jumping, according to the nature of the path. It also reached its maximum speed 6 meters per second, or about 22 kilometers per hour.
From the laboratory to disaster sites
The researchers believe that the technology could pave the way for a new generation of robots capable of operating independently in complex environments, with potential applications in Search and rescue operations, disaster sites, inspection of industrial facilities, in addition to some defensive missions.
According to Professor Park, this technology may become a key element in expanding the use of AI-powered robots outside laboratory environments, especially in areas that are difficult for humans to reach or work in safely.
