Researchers at the Computer Robotics Design and Manufacturing Lab of EPFL have introduced a canine-inspired robot that relies on inertia to keep moving after it starts. The development was highlighted on the university site. The device is a four‑limbed walking platform equipped with electric drives to initiate motion. Once the robot reaches a threshold speed, the propulsion is disengaged, and the movement of the limbs continues through inertia and a counterweight system. The concept drew inspiration from the anatomy and biomechanics of dogs, according to EPFL engineer Mikael Achkar, who led the project. (EPFL)
The team leveraged extensive data on dog gait, which they found to be openly available in some cases, helping to model natural movement patterns for the robot. This data informed how the limbs should travel through space and how energy could be recycled within the system to sustain motion after actuation pauses. (EPFL)
Initially, the researchers did not intend to build a robot capable of autonomous movement. The autonomous cruising behavior emerged during treadmill testing of an early prototype. In Achkar’s words, the team initially viewed the behavior as an accidental byproduct. A design tweak revealed that the robot could no longer operate as originally planned, yet the emergent motion demonstrated a self‑sustaining rhythm that inspired further refinement. (EPFL)
Beyond merely walking, the actuators powering the robot serve a dual purpose: they can be harnessed to propel the platform over modest obstacles and to execute jumping motions when needed. This capability expands the potential applications of the system, particularly in environments where terrain varies and rapid adaptation is essential. (EPFL)
The work at EPFL aligns with a broader trend in robotics toward leveraging natural movement principles to reduce energy consumption and increase efficiency, drawing on biomimicry to inform control strategies and mechanical design. While the current focus is on canine-inspired locomotion, the underlying approach could influence other legged platforms and assistive devices in the future. (EPFL)