Iterative Product Engineering : Evolutionary Robot Design

This paper details an iterative, rapid method for digital mock-up and the evolutionary optimisation of a closed loop controller for highly dynamic gaits. The evolutionary approach in the virtual construction kit MorphEngine is investigated on its capacity to inspire and evolve behaviours for legged robots and non-biometric locomotion. The tool supports the engineer in finding, controlling and finally implementing gaits based on emergent dynamics on a real-world robot through the iterative exploitation of both the agents morphology and its physical environment.

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