A CPG-based decentralized control of a quadruped robot inspired by true slime mold

Abstract

Despite its appeal, a systematic design of an autonomous decentralized control system is yet to be realized. To bridge this gap, we have so far employed a “back-to-basics” approach inspired by true slime mold, a primitive living creature whose behavior is purely controlled by coupled biochemical oscillators similar to central pattern generators (CPGs). Based on this natural phenomenon, we have successfully developed a design scheme for local sensory feedback control leading to system-wide adaptive behavior. This design scheme is based on a “discrepancy function” that extracts the discrepancies among the mechanical system (i:e:, body), control system (i:e:, brain-nervous system) and the environment. The aim of this study is to intensively investigate the validity of this design scheme by applying it to the control of a quadruped locomotion. Simulation results show that the quadruped robot exhibits remarkably adaptive behavior in response to environmental changes and changes in body properties. Our results shed a new light on design methodologies for CPG-based decentralized control of various types of locomotion.