Tuesday, November 20, 2007

Transformers - Robots in Disguise - In Battle

http://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/militar

So the military is in the testing phases of a new combat-ready robot. They already have those. But they aren't terribly useful because none at all are on the front lines taking the place of soldiers that are going to die. The main difference is not location (There actually is no difference there. These robots aren't ready for front-line use either.), however, but in capabilities. This robot can actually change out its parts depending on situation. For example: You need to diffuse a bomb. The robot with its current treads can't reach the bomb in time and you don't want to send in soldiers. Also, the robot has a mounted gun, but no "hands." With the push of a button, both the equipment problems are resolved. Push a button. Poof, the robot has less handling but better speed because it swapped out its own treads. Poof. It puts the gun away and extends little robot hands. You win. Period. Good idea, no visible downside unless it takes a gallon of gas to run it for 1/2 a minute.

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