The Mantis is a fearsome two-tonne all terrain hexapod robot, built by UK robotics firm Micromagic Systems.
Operated remotely or piloted by a single driver, the hexapod can be hired for corporate events, sponsorships, oppression of a cowed populace and light garden work.
Of PETMAN – their frankly terrifying robo-humanoid, developed with funding from the US Defense Department’s Chemical and Biological Defense program, Boston Dynamics sez:
It is used to test the performance of protective clothing designed for hazardous environments. The video shows initial testing in a chemical protection suit and gas mask. PETMAN has sensors embedded in its skin that detect any chemicals leaking through the suit. The skin also maintains a micro-climate inside the clothing by sweating and regulating temperature.
Killing all humans: it’s a sweaty business.
Robotics manufacturer Boston Dynamics sez:
BigDog handles heavy objects. The goal is to use the strength of the legs and torso to help power motions of the arm. This sort of dynamic, whole-body approach to manipulation is used routinely by human athletes and will enhance the performance of advanced robots. Boston Dynamics is developing the control and actuation techniques needed for dynamic manipulation. The cinderblock weighs about 35 lbs and the best throw is a bit more than 17 ft. The research is funded by the Army Research Laboratory’s RCTA program.
Previously: Cheetahbot Catches Up
(Hat tip: Andrew Sheridan)
An extremely impressive CG sci-fi short written, directed and animated by 22 year-old German student Kaleb Lechowski, from whom the film world can expect great things.
Featuring the voice talent of Dubliner David Masterson.
Though it’s hard enough to make out the tune over the sound of their four-armed drumbot, this video of German robotic band Compressorhead might make you dread the rise of the machines in all new ways.
Unfazed? How about some puppets banging out the same tune?
Remember the working transformer prototype from last summer? Well, it’s been improved.
It walks, it drives, it fires little projectiles and it has a wifi camera built in.
You want one and the creator Kenji Ishida is selling ten units (price on application). Good luck with that.
A ‘concept vid’ featuring Marquese Nonstop Scott and Jon Boogz doing their thing to ‘No Prayers’ by Zed’s Dead.
