NASA's New Robot 'RoboSimian' Moves Just Like a Primate

 - Jul 22, 2013
References: & gizmodo
NASA's new robot is the 'RoboSimian,' inspired by the movements of a primate. The agile movements of monkeys inspired this new bot, which will primarily be used in search and rescue missions. This ape-inspired robot has a form that resembles a human or monkey form, with limbs that resemble arms and legs. However, unlike living creatures, this bot has no front or back, making it always oriented in the correct position even if it is accidentally rolled onto its side or knocked over.

The 'RoboSimian' is set to compete in the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Robotics Challenge, which is designed to spur the creation of robots to provide relief in the event of a man-made or natural disaster. 'RoboSimian' is expected to be able to handle tasks like climbing ladders, stairs and driving vehicles.