Filed under: Robots

Walking robots never cease to amaze, but “Flame” from TU Delft PhD student Daan Hobbelen is what we like to call a mega breakthrough. By mimicking the way that humans actually fall forward when walking, this robot comes insanely close to the real thing. Usually, walking robots are energy-hungry propositions, but this is the first that’s both efficient and stable. Inside Flame are seven motors and a balance “organ” loaded with stability algorithms. By measuring each step, the robot adjusts stance width, speed, and gait on the go. In the end, kids, we’re looking at the world’s most advanced and efficient walking robot. If you want to see this thing in action, head on over the read link where you can download a .wmv.

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Filed under: Robots

We’ve seen mechs of all shapes and sizes, but typically, they either aren’t for sale or are priced right out of most budgets. Thankfully, Andres Bella has created a “mini mech” that can be replicated by anyone with a few extra dollars, a decent understanding of robotics and a bunch of unused vacation time. The creature was built using a Basic Stam II microcontroller, a couple of high gear motors / pneumatic cylinders, a power supply, pressure gauge and a bunch of metal (among other things). We won’t pretend to know exactly how he went about constructing this thing, but we’d certainly love to have one to take the load off our own feet (and part the seas of holiday shoppers).

[Via Hacked Gadgets]

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