This is a prototype from Boston Dynamics. Meet the 'Alpha Dog'. This four legged, robotic device is pretty amazing considering stuff like it was science fiction just a decade ago. It's called 'Alpha Dog' but perhaps a better name for it would be 'Awesome-sauce robot dog'.A few things to note in the video: The weights being carried by the dog weigh a total of 400 pounds and this robot can carry that load up to 20 miles (30 kilometers) over the course of 24 hours without having to refuel. Also, when the robot is on the ground it was not do to any mechanical problems. The robot collapses into a "safety frame" because it runs out of room. Lastly note the guys pushing it with all their strength and it doesn't phase it a bit. It stays on it's feet. Now the real test is can I it be ridden? If it can I am going to start saving for one right now.
Now as cool as this robot is, the range of its payload and range has kept it from being a realistically deployed system. It will need to push its current limitations before it will be see as a useful tool for its cost and bother. But those over at Boston Dynamics are encouraged and optimistic that this will eventually be fully realized.
This is an artist rendering of a potential end product that could become the standard for military operations and planetary exploration. I can't wait till the first AT-AT is created. My dream is to see one in every nerd's garage.