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A nature-inspired design, the robot weighs 38 kilograms and stands 0.63 meters tall. The research team drew inspiration from the joints and feet of animals such as the black panther and jerboa, which contributed to enhanced strength, flexibility, and precision in their movements. The robot's knee joints were upgraded with springs acting as shock absorbers, enabling it to handle high speeds with ease.
Innovative Materials and Techniques
To address the challenge of leg fractures when running at speeds of up to 6 meters per second, the robot’s legs were crafted from carbon fiber, increasing their rigidity by 135% without adding significant weight. Additionally, it was equipped with innovative footwear inspired by the claws of cheetahs, boosting its grip strength by 200%.
Advanced Artificial Intelligence
The researchers utilized advanced AI technologies to improve the robot's movement coordination. They incorporated the principle of coupled pendulums, allowing for a more harmonious gait. The robot can also adapt its walking style to various scenarios, positioning it as a strong candidate for the next generation of industrial quadruped robots.
A Vision for the Future
Although the robot outperforms most humans in running, it still lags behind the fastest land animals, such as cheetahs and ostriches. However, the research team aims to bridge this gap, striving to enhance the motor capabilities of robots in the future.
This groundbreaking innovation is the result of collaboration between the Robotics Innovation Institute at Zhejiang University and the Hangzhou-based startup "Mirror Me." The "Black Panther 2.0" prototype was developed in just three months, highlighting the team’s remarkable achievement in creating high-performance robots.