BigDog robot learns how to throw concrete blocks

The four legged, 3ft long robot weighs 240 pounds and contains sensors for joint position, joint force, ground contact, ground load, a gyroscope, LIDAR and a stereo vision system. Powered by an engine that drives a hydraulic actuation system, it can run at four miles per hour, climb slopes up to 35 degrees, walk over rubble and through snow and water - all while carrying a 340 pound load. BigDog's on-board computer controls locomotion, servos the legs and handles a variety of sensors. The control system keeps it balanced, navigates, and regulates its energetics as conditions vary. Other sensors monitor hydraulic pressure, oil temperature, engine functions and battery charge. Boston Dynamics believes BigDog could be helpful to troops in rugged terrain that need help carrying heavy loads, as well as in search and rescue operations.