VOA常速英语2015--模块化机器人即将走进现实（在线收听）

Modular Robot Getting Closer to Reality 模块化机器人即将走进现实

For years, researchers at Carnegie Mellon University experimented with a snake-like robot that could crawl through pipes and climb up trees.

多年来，卡内基梅隆大学的研究者们一直在实验一种能爬过管道并爬树的蛇状机器人。

Gradually, their robot evolved into motorized modules, each with its own processor, that can be assembled in various configurations, such as a six-legged insect-like machine they call the Snake Monster.

这款机器人慢慢演化成机动化模块，每个模块都有自己的处理器，可以以不同的布局重新组合，比如被他们称之为“蛇魔”的六足昆虫状机器。

Howie Choset, a professor at the Carnegie Mellon Robotics Institute, said researchers were "able to put the modules together as easy as Lego, but there is a lot going on underneath the hood to allow that to happen.”

豪伊·乔赛特是卡内基梅隆机器人研究所的教授，他说研究者们“能够像玩乐高玩具那样很轻易地将模块进行组合，但要做到这一点，背后隐藏着很多机巧。”

What happens "underneath the hood" is the most interesting part. The modules are able to communicate with each other, in order to coordinate the robot’s movements.

这种隐藏的机巧是最有趣的部分，这些模块能相互沟通，从而协调机器人的运动。

End modules with wheels instead of feet allow the robot to move faster on smooth surfaces. Modules may also be equipped with a camera that can survey the surroundings.

末端模块有轮子，而不是脚，这样机器人就能在光滑表面上更快地运动。模块上也可配备摄像头来调查周围环境。

Another feature is a so-called “master-and-slave” system, through which an operator can manipulate a robotic twin, remotely controlling the twin and even feeling the resistance it encounters.

另一个特点是所谓的“主从系统”，通过该系统操作者可以操纵一台孪生机器人，远程地控制这台机器人，甚至能感到它遇到的阻力。

Choset said the robot is ready for real-life testing. "That robot is field-deployable," he said. "You can take that robot and throw it around. It's robust. You can kick it, and it is still going to work.”

乔赛特说这款机器人已经可以进行实际测试，“这个机器人可以进行野外操作，你可以把它拿起来扔一边，它很结实，还可以踢它，但它还能工作。”

Modular robotic arms can be programmed for various tasks, including feeding handicapped persons.

模块化机器人手臂可以设定用于进行多项任务，包括给残疾人喂食。

Researchers are already working on other modular attachments, such as force-sensing feet or tank-like tracks that will allow customizing robots for different tasks.

研究者已经在开发其他模块化附件，比如能感受力量的脚和像坦克那样的轨道，从而可以对机器人定制化更多任务。