Robots That Move Like Humans

New research into the way people move may someday make robot motion appear more human-like. The work is based on analyzing patterns of antagonist muscle pairs, which create movement by alternately contracting and relaxing (e.g. biceps and triceps).

Electromyograms (EMGs) of various human muscle motions are recorded and analyzed to extract patterns of muscle pair coordination. This information is then transferred to a musculo-skeletal model that uses low-pressure pneumatic actuators as "muscles." So far, the researchers have been able to mimic the smooth walking and pedaling movements of humans. Future directions include creating a robot hand that would be capable of human-like dexterity.