Passive Walking Robot Propelled by Its Own Weight

“This robot is walking down a slope, and its only source of power is potential energy. It doesn’t use any kind of motor or control, so we think it’s very environmentally friendly.”

“The robot has three main parts: thighs, lower legs, and ankles. It’s made of aluminum, and it contains only mechanical components, which have been adjusted so that the robot has the same thigh and leg lengths as a person, and weighs the same.”

In a walking test last year, this robot walked continuously for 13 hours, taking 100,000 steps and going 15 km. That achievement has been listed in the Guinness Book of Records.

“We plan to develop a commercial version with System Instruments, which is exhibiting with us today. We’re thinking of applying the principle this robot uses to walk in sports equipment as well. Also, people who need care or find it hard to walk could wear this robot to help them walk. Right now, we’re at the prototyping stage, as we’d like to release a commercial version in 1-2 years.”