In a groundbreaking achievement, researchers at Northwestern University have successfully developed an artificial intelligence system capable of autonomously designing a robot.

This represents a significant milestone, marking the first time such an accomplishment has been achieved. The researchers tasked the AI with a simple prompt: “design a robot that can walk across a flat surface.”

In a matter of seconds, the AI generated a design, resulting in the creation of a purple block.

Artificial intelligence, a branch of computer science focused on creating computer systems that can emulate human brain functions such as reasoning, learning, and intelligent decision-making, played a pivotal role in this achievement, as highlighted by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Professional Education office.

Northwestern University’s AI exhibited remarkable learning capabilities, rapidly progressing from initial stages, CBS News reported.

Initially, it learned to perform actions like jiggling, bouncing in place, and shuffling. After nine iterations, the block-shaped robot started to walk, albeit at a speed approximately half that of an average human stride.

Lead researcher Sam Kriegman noted the fascinating aspect of the AI’s development, stating, “It’s interesting because we didn’t tell the AI that a robot should have legs,” he said.

“It rediscovered that legs are a good way to move around on land. Legged locomotion is, in fact, the most efficient form of terrestrial movement,” he continued.

The researchers remain uncertain about the specific reasons behind the AI’s decision to incorporate fins and holes into the robot’s design.

However, they emphasized the importance of these features, as removing them caused the robot to lose its ability to walk.

Sam Kriegman is scheduled to appear on CBS 2 News at 8 a.m. on October 4, and the comprehensive research report can be found in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Written by staff