CMU Creates Faster, Safer Running Robot

Carnegie Mellon researchers develop a robot dog that runs at high speeds while avoiding crashes.

The four-legged robot reaches speeds of 3.1 meters per second and dodges obstacles in tight spaces.

"Our robot can easily navigate through super confined spaces like offices, narrow corridors, snow, and grass," says Tairan He, a PhD student working on the project.

The robot uses special vision systems to predict and avoid collisions before they happen.

"Since the robot has a very clear vision of what will happen in the future, it can take actions before the situation actually occurs," says CMU professor Changliu Liu.

The team tested the robot by throwing unexpected obstacles in its path, including people jumping in front of it.

The new system, called Agile But Safe, lets the robot move quickly without compromising safety.

The robot can run through offices and outdoor areas while avoiding sudden obstacles.

The research team will present their work at a major robotics conference this year.

CMU researchers proved their robot can handle real-world challenges like narrow halls and moving people.

This marks a big step forward in making fast robots that can work safely around humans.