HERMES is a two-legged robot that MIT researchers have enabled to carry out human movements, through a unique balance-feedback interface. It can punch through drywall, smash soda cans, kick trash bins and even karate-chop boards in two. These actions aren't, however, directly executed by HERMES. Instead, a researcher strapped into an exoskeleton with motors and wires is controlling the robot by performing the very same movements. As the researcher simulates punching through a wall, the robot will do the same. But as HERMES' fist hits the wall, the researcher will also feel the impact, and push back to maintain balance — which will be copied by HERMES. The balance-feedback interface utilizes the split-second reflexes humans have, giving HERMES a faster reaction time than if it were to adjust its footing according to visual information from installed cameras. Joao Ramos, a PhD student from the MIT Department of Mechanical Engineering, said that image processing is slow and this makes it difficult for a robot to react in time. He added that the researchers are keen on exploring how people can take over movements for a robot. With the balance-feedback interface, Ramos and his colleagues are hoping to deploy HERMES to disaster sites, where it can explore the affected area with the guidance of a human operator.

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• Country: USA 
• Company: MIT