Bilkent Dexterous Robotics and Locomotion (BDRL) Group

BDRL members. Top row: Ömür Arslan, Uluç Saranlı, Sıtar Kortik; Bottom row: Cihan Öztürk, Akın Avcı, Tuğba Yıldız.

Inspired by examples in nature, we use simple dynamic models to capture essential properties of primitive locomotory behaviors. Embedded within legged robot designs equipped with a sufficient sensory suite but simple and robust enough for autonomous operation, we build physical realizations of these primitive behaviors suitable for outdoor use. Finally, we combine methods from formal logic and theoretical computer science with tools offered by continuous control towards scalable programming formalisms for goal-oriented autonomous composition of behavioral primitives.

A secondary goal of our laboratory is to advance the current level of expertise in Turkey related to the design and deployment of novel autonomous robot systems.