4.3 Locomotion

1. How to walk

Ever wondered how a bug actually walks? Well, this section is probably not going to completely answer that question for you, but it will at least make a good start. The neural systems built in the simulator to make the insect walk are nowhere near as complicated or adaptable as those seen in real insect brains. However, researchers have discovered allot about the general processes going on in the brain that control walking behavior. Based on this research, they have even come up with some models on how the brain does it. This section will use the fruits of their labor to build a high level neural network that gives the insect the ability to walk around its environment.

2. Section Overview

This section begins by talking about some of the basics on the motion of walking. It then talks a little about one of the key components that has been discovered in real insects which allows them to control their own walking. The next page goes on to discuss what type of system can be used to control the movements of an individual leg and foot. Finally, the last page in this section ties all of the legs together so that the insect can actually walk.