Episode 33: Darwin’s robots

Researchers are designing robots with artificial intelligence that evolves on its own. Generation after generation, only the fittest survive to pass their “genes” onto the next generation. The result is AI that actually evolves at an astonishing rate to accomplish a complex goal. All without the guidance of a programmer.

The process is called Neuro-evolution and University of Liverpool Ph.D. student James Butterworth is using it to develop a squad of intelligent autonomous drones.

To find out more you can listen to the podcast by following the links below:

Listen via Blubrry

You can find an example of Super Mario neuro-evolution here

Another fascinating example can be found here

Some examples of James’ recent work showing drones trying to maximally cover an area can be found here.

Music in the podcast is by Kai Engel 

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