Key Functions of a Military Robotic Dog

Boston Dynamics has tested the BigDog, a robotic dog the size of a real dog, which is capable of playing an important role on the battlefield: delivering ammunition, food and other items to soldiers. The principle is that a hydraulic system powered by a gasoline engine moves its articulated limbs. Gyroscopes and other sensors help the onboard computer plan each step of the movement. The robot relies on its senses to keep its balance, and if one leg hits the ground earlier than expected, the computer thinks it may have stepped on a rock or a hill, and BigDog adjusts its pace accordingly.