Robotics Technology Center

Boston Dynamics Big Dog: A Multi-Terrain Robot

Does it freak you out? Don't mind looking for the head, it's probably placed somewhere covered by the heavy loads on it's back. Big Dog is an amazing runner. You have to watch the video to see how a magnificent runner it is, even in difficult terrains.

Big Dog is Boston Dynamics' rough-terrain robot that walks, runs, climbs and carries heavy loads. It is the most advanced quadruped robot. BigDog has four legs that are modeled like an animal’s, with compliant elements to absorb shock and recycle energy from one step to the next. It has the size of a large dog or a mule and stands about 3 feet long, 2.5 feet tall and weighs 240 lbs.

Big Dog is a heavy-weight carrier (up to 340lbs of weight), designed to accompany and help the army carry their loads. As tested on different types of terrains, including slopes up to 35 degrees, rubble, muddy hiking trail, snow and shallow water, Big Dog could run or walk efficiently without falling. Computer mounted on its back controls locomotion, servos operate the legs to navigate and keep its balance and a variety of sensors to monitor its path.

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