Being pushed over and getting up again is, of course, all part of the process to verify Atlas’ capabilities, which include being able to operate indoors or outside on tricky terrain.
According to Boston Dynamics, the electrically powered and hydraulically actuated machine uses sensors in its body and legs to balance, and LIDAR and stereo sensors in its head to avoid obstacles, assess the terrain, help with navigation and manipulate objects.
Atlas is the latest robot from a company that has previously developed similarly impressive machines, including BigDog and Cheetah.
Poll: Should the UK’s railways be renationalised?
I think that a network inclusive of the vehicles on it would make sense. However it remains to be seen if there is any plan for it to be for the...