About the MIT Leg Lab Robots


Researchers at the Leg Laboratory have built a series of legged robots, including one-legged hoppers, biped runners, a springy biped walker, a quadruped, and two kangaroo-like robots. Taken collectively, these machines traverse simple paths, run with several different gaits, run fast (13 mph), walk using springy legs, jump over obstacles, climb a simplified stairway, and perform rudimentary gymnastic maneuvers. Although no one machine performs all these tasks, many of the machines use a common set of balance and control principles. The Leg Laboratory also uses physics-based computer simulations to study legged locomotion and to build automated computer characters.

Here are some more words about us:

  • Leg Laboratory Mission Page Who we are and what we do.
  • Leg Laboratory Publicity Guidelines Some guidelines we use when dealing with reporters, photographers, and other people who want to talk about us and our work..
  • Leg Laboratory HistoryA chronological guide to developments in the Leg Laboratory from 1980 to present.
  • Here's the Leg Lab Song. (OK, so we need a newer one!)
  • About (Artificial) Legged Locomotion


    Please let us know if you have any additions to any of these pages!
  • Here are related links with an emphasis on legged work.
  • We've summarized the Milestones in Legged Locomotion --- a chronological guide to major developments in the history of legged locomotion.
  • If you have to write papers or give talks about legged robots, (or if you're just a masochist) don't miss our stunningly complete running list of puns.
  • Home Back to the Leg Lab Home Page


    © 1996 MIT Leg Laboratory. All Rights Reserved.
    Most recent update: Sept 24, 1996