The incredible robot that can run, climb and jump (and could soon be deployed in disaster zones too dangerous for humans)



Prototype robot shown off ahead of $2m US military 'iron man' robot contest next year



Dozens of machines set to compete over an obstacle course and in simulated disaster zones



For anyone who was relying on being able to escape from a robot simply by climbing stairs, it could be a bone chilling sight.

Researchers in America have revealed astonishing footage of a human-like robot able to walk, jump and run over almost any obstacle in its path.

Eventually it is hoped the technology could be used to create a new breed of robotic soldiers able to operate in any terrain, and robots capable of being sent into dangerous disaster zones deemed impossible for humans to enter.

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The pet-proto making its way across a pit by holding onto a wall

The shoe wearing robot is also shown leaping up a flight of stairs, balancing itself as it goes, then walking across a thin plank of wood

The robot is able to leap tall steps in a single bound - all without losing its balance.

The amazing robot, called proto-pet, is expected to be one of those competing in the DARPA Robotics Challenge (DRC) which was announced today.

The US military funded challenge is for robots who can operate entirely by themselves.



'The Department of Defense’s strategic plan calls for the Joint Force to conduct humanitarian, disaster relief and related operations,' DARPA said in a statement.

'The plan identifies requirements to extend aid to victims of natural or man-made disasters and conduct evacuation operations.

'Some disasters, however, due to grave risks to the health and wellbeing of rescue and aid workers, prove too great in scale or scope for timely and effective human response.



The robots will compete next year in a series of events designed to show off how they could help out in a disaster zone

'The DARPA Robotics Challenge (DRC) will attempt to address this capability gap by promoting innovation in robotic technology for disaster-response operations.



'The primary technical goal of the DRC is to develop ground robots capable of executing complex tasks in dangerous, degraded, human-engineered environments.'

Robots entered into the contest will also be expected to use tools normally operated by humans.

'Competitors in the DRC are expected to focus on robots that can use standard tools and equipment commonly available in human environments, ranging from hand tools to vehicles, with an emphasis on adaptability to tools with diverse specifications.'



The contest will culminate next year, when the robots will participate in two live events June 2013 and December 2013.

An artist's impression of how the finished robot could look

Other entries in the contest are from private firm Schaft (left) and Carnegie Mellon University (right)



A 'spider' robot being by Nasa for the contest

An artist's impression of a robot Nasa plans to build to take part in the contest



