AlphaDog prototype (via Boston Dynamics)
The BigDog quadruped robotics platform from Boston Dynamics, has been upsized. The new bot, named AlphaDog, can now carry 400 lbs (181kg) for a distance of 20 miles (32km), in contrast to the formers 340 lbs (154kg) and 12 miles (19km).
At a key note speech, the Boston Dynamic President Marc Raibert showed off the AlphaDog and its features. Designed to be a squad support carrier, the AlphaDog (AKA the LS3 Legged Squad Support System) can last up to 24 hours on a single charge. Eventually, on board computer vision and GPS will allow the LS3 to travel to destinations without any further control. The platform will take 30 months to complete. The first scheduled test will take place in 2012.
Cost to payload ratio on the AlphaDog/LS3 cannot beat a vehicle, I am sure. The question sits, under what circumstances will the LS3 be used?
Watch the ending of the video where the AlphaDog gets up from being knocked down. I fear that this bot shows the future of ground combat. Regular troops would have a hard time dealing with such a machine. Especially with what looks like a giant gun embedded in its body.
For those who do not know about the original BigDog platform, take a look at the follow video.
BigDog (via Boston Dynamics)
Eavesdropper
