Photo: Boston Dynamics
The MIT spinoff robotics company, Boston Dynamics, recently released footage of their PETMAN prototype, a biped robot the balances dynamically using a human-like walking motion. The company says it is a close relative of BigDog, sharing elements of the mechanical design and control. However unlike BigDog, PETMAN will be used to test chemical protection clothing by the US Army. The biped will simulate human physiology within its suit by changing temperature, humidity, and even sweating when necessary.
After a 13 month design phase, the program has a 17 month build, installation, and validation phase. Delivery is scheduled for 2011.
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Slice of MIT by the Alumni Association 
February 17, 2010 at 11:07 am
[…] it comes as no surprise, Leg Lab spinoff Boston Dynamics (of BigDog and PETMAN fame) announced earlier this month that it has been awarded a contract by the Defense Advanced […]