Bear robot load

US military officials are developing a teddy bear- like robot for use in bringing injured soldiers out of combat.

1. Teddy Bear's friendly face is aimed at creating comfort and calm the wounded.

2. The upper body, operated by a hydraulic system, can lift loads up to 227kg.

3. When kneeling down, crawler legs move through rough areas, and move on wheels if that surface is smooth.

4. Dynamic Balance Behavior (DBB) technology allows the robot to stand and bring the subject upright on its ankles, knees or hips for nearly an hour.

BEAR, the acronym for Battlefield Extraction Assist Robot, can easily lift a heavyweight warrior and bring it out of its long, rugged battlefield. New Scientist magazine said that the robot has a ' friendly appearance ' to reassure and alleviate the pain of wounded soldiers. And it will be ready to perform its lofty function within 5 years.

BEA is remotely controlled and equipped with camcorders and microphones for the operator to observe and listen to the battlefield situation that gives the appropriate command.

BY NGUYEN QUY ANH