[vitobcn]

I find amazing how difficult it is to successfully perform apparently trivial tasks such as walking.

There's more information about the 'LittleDog' on the Boston Dynamics website: http://www.bostondynamics.com/

I was really impressed 2 years ago by their video of the 'BigDog': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W1czBcnX1Ww (check out t=40s)

[pohl]

Yes, the way it recovered from that kick is incredible.

And, if you'll forgive me, here's one additional link for anyone who hadn't yet heard of Big Dog. (Unlikely, I know...) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VXJZVZFRFJc

[po]

If you saw the original Boston Dynamics BigDog Youtube video, should check out the version that researchers here in tokyo have come up with:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X5BPrlOVX2o

[njharman]

I find it amazing HN readers believe walking is a trivial task.

[jrp]

The key word being "apparently".

[seldo]

I don't even think it's that apparent. It takes us 2 years to learn to walk, even with millions upon millions of years of evolution designing us perfectly to do it.

[demallien]

Yes, but many four-legged animals can walk mere minutes after having been born, and this is a more valid comparison for the task facing a four-legged robot.

[cma]

>even with millions upon millions of years of evolution designing us perfectly to do it.

Birds can walk on two legs in very little time.