A human-like robot built to test chemical protection clothing used by the US Army has been unveiled by Boston Dynamics.
The robot, named Petman, is the first anthropomorphic robot built by the company that has the shape and size of a standard human.
It can balance itself, and walk, crawl and perform a variety of suit-stressing exercises while being exposured to chemical warfare agents.
Petman provides realistic test conditions by simulating human physiology within a protective suit by controlling temperature, humidity and sweating.
Delivery of the robot to the US Army is scheduled for 2011.
Boston Dynamics partnered with companies including Midwest Research Institute (MRI), Measurement Technology Northwest, Smith Carter CUH2A (SCC) and HHI Corporation for the development of Petman.
