Scientists and engineers unveil their latest creation in humanoid robots that is especially made for emergency response situations.

Researchers from the Italian Institute of Technology and the University of Pisa developed this anthropomorphic robot that is programmed to operate human tools, that will eventually aid in search and rescue operations that are deemed too dangerous for humans.

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The robot, known as Walk-Man is expected to operated within risky situations involving damaged structures and to perform tasks such as lifting collapsed buildings or structures. According to lead researcher Nikos Tsagaraki, robots that possess human forms can provide a firm grip on tools used by humans and even access areas or pathways that can fit a human body's shape. Since the robot now has a similar human form, they just need to adapt less to the environment to become operational within a space.

Last June, the Walk-Man made its debut at the DARPA Robotics Challenge finals, measuring six feet tall and weighing 118 kilograms, including an arm span of 6.56 feet. The robot's head also contains a stereo vision system and a 3D laser scanner that rotates, in order to further assist in sensing its environment.

This special robot can also demonstrate human-like balance, locomotion and similar human activities as well as navigating through tricky terrain by using all its limb capacity.

Researchers also consider this feat as a game changer in humanoid development and technology, however, it is now currently limited to only using its lower half of its body for needed balance. They also note how the upper body is also pivotal for going around or passing through confined spaces.

To date, the team is developing new algorithms for faster manipulation capabilities along with a more sensitive and reflexive behavior that will enable the robot to traverse along uneven paths and adapt with start and stop gait transition, at a faster response time.

Even if it is focused to work autonomously, this humanoid robot will still be remotely controlled by humans especially when it comes to problem solving. As the robot transmits precious data back to control center, the controller will decide the robot's next move.  

The Walk-Man however, will move in slower motions, as researchers believe that humanoid robots can best function slowly under disaster stricken sites, to reduce chances of falling debris or collisions.

Tagswalk-man robot, emergency response robot, Robotics, walk-man humanoid robot, Humanoid Robot, DARPA, Humanoid, walk-man