Robots That Can Build

Written by: Jair Mendes

         In the future, will robots know how to build a bridge? Will they have the brains to figure out when a structure is stable? Researchers at Brandeis University are developing robots whose bodies and brains can evolve to meet these requirements. Right now, scientists and engineers at Brandeis are involved in the first step of the development process. They are running computerized robotic simulations that can build lego bridges that actually hold together! The program rearranges the combinations of Lego's until it has figured out a combination that works. The bridges, which were formed through the program, were kind of odd looking but still functional.

         Yet, this program is only a glimpse of what's in store for us. When robots have fully developed features, which are comparable to living organism, our technology will be limitless. At least one of the first steps has been accomplished!

For more information go to:
http://www.newscientist.com/nsplus/insight/ai/droidforall.html