Locomotion Latest coverage

Robotic Systems Lab@leggedrobotics· 16:29SignalEditorial score7878

The team at ETH Robotic Systems Lab demonstrated high-speed rough-terrain locomotion on ANYmal using an automatic curriculum learning approach called LP-ACRL. This method dynamically samples terrain types, difficulty levels, and velocity commands based on policy performance, without requiring pre-defined training sequences. The work was presented at RAL 2026.

Small robot propulsion: low-power twisting enables hopping, swimming

Researchers at the University of Michigan and UCLA have developed a new propulsion mechanism for small robots using low-power twisting of elastic rods. This method enables hopping and swimming motions by utilizing snapping mechanics. The mechanism works on challenging surfaces such as slippery cloth and grass-covered ground, producing frog-like motion. The study, published in Science Advances, was co-led by Khalid Jawed and Xiaonan (Sean) Huang, and demonstrates the potential for miniature robots to maneuver over uneven or slippery terrain.

F.03 Arrives at BMW

Figure's latest generation robot, F.03, has arrived at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg, demonstrating advanced dynamic whole-body control and sequencing use cases. Powered by Helix 02, the robot performs complex material manipulation tasks that require both precision and force, marking progress in embodied AI for manufacturing.