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OSU spinoff company builds walking robots

The robot can balance, walk, and run not only on flat ground, but on rugged terrain as well.

CORVALLIS, Ore. -- With the help of an $8 million funding boost, an Oregon robotics company is well on the way to producing walking and running robots that could one day help out around your home.

The company is called Agility Robotics and it was launched by the robotics lab at Oregon State University.

Engineers are testing out the latest prototype named Cassie.

The robot can balance, walk, and run not only on flat ground, but on rugged terrain as well.

Unlike the lab's earlier ATRIAS prototype, Cassie is much smaller and lighter. Its legs can turn so it can steer itself, and it has ankles.

The engineers' next step will be to fit it with cameras and laser sensors so it will be able to "see" and then maneuver around large obstacles, such as climbing up stairs.

They say, someday, the robots could be used in warehouses to move or unload boxes, to make deliveries, or in homes for assistance.

"It's just going to be nice to have these things at home that could help you bring things in your house, be a telepresence so you can talk with family as you are going around doing your business," said Agility founder Jonathan Hurst.

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