It was 1986 when Honda commenced the humanoid robot research and development program. Keys to the development of the robot included "intelligence" and "mobility." The basic concept at that time was that the robot "should coexist and cooperate with human beings, by doing what a person cannot do and cultivating a new dimension in mobility both of which would result in added value to society." This, in other words, provided a guideline for a new type of robot that would be used in our daily life, rather than that purpose-built for special operations.

Approximately one year was spent exclusively on initially determining how the robot should be like in order to build the concept. The robot that was aimed at should ensure such functions as moving through furnished rooms and going up and down the stairs because it was to be designed for home use. And, at the same time, the design team came up with a conception that the robot would be compatible to most terrains, including severely rough surfaces if two-foot/leg mobility technology would be ensured for the robot. Based upon the aforementioned, Honda engineers begun the program by focusing on a "foot/leg-walking mobile function," which corresponds to our basic measure of mobility.

As you probably imagine, there have been a number of technical challenges to be cleared before creating the robot intended. Special attention was thus paid to our own legs and feet.  To begin with, the first phase of our program was dedicated to the analysis of how a human walks with the legs and feet. Look how the robot can walk up and down stairs!  

 

These robots can even play soccer! (click image to see a Real Video clip of the "Robo Cup")

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