Flying robot armed with shotgun  Something I just submitted to
slashdot:  A small company called Neural Robotics has produced a
robotic mini-helicopter armed with a rapid-fire shotgun. Based
on their low-cost AutoCopter, the UAV uses neural network-based
flight control algorithms to fly in either a self-stabilizing
semi-autonomous mode controlled by a remote operator, or a
fully-autonomous mode which can follow GPS waypoints. A video of
the AutoCopter Gunship is available. (Dijjer mirror)  Stepping
aside the ethical issues of replacing soldiers with flying
shotgun-wielding robots for the moment, their “neural network-
based” flight control system seemed like an interesting
technical accomplishment. This PDF briefing has a few details.
Taking a look at page 14 of their PDF though, perhaps their
control system is a little on the simplistic side. It seems to
just update roll and pitch based on the current movement and
facing of the helicopter, without making use of visual
information or other sensors. I’m not to