Boston Dynamics bullies four-legged robot in new video clip

Boston Dynamics uploaded a new video clip that showcases how well SpotMini, a four-legged robot, can handle disturbances. The robot is given the command to open a door, but is continuously pestered by a human. Boston Dynamics ensures us that the testing did not irritate or harm the robot. At this point, we're wondering when the robots will start to fight back.

A test of SpotMini's ability to adjust to disturbances as it opens and walks through a door. A person (not shown) drives the robot up to the door, points the hand at the door handle, then gives the 'GO' command, both at the beginning of the video and again at 42 seconds. The robot proceeds autonomously from these points on, without help from a person. A camera in the hand finds the door handle, cameras on the body determine if the door is open or closed and navigate through the doorway. Software provides locomotion, balance and adjusts behavior when progress gets off track. The ability to tolerate and respond automatically to disturbances like these improves successful operation of the robot. (Note: This testing does not irritate or harm the robot.)