Researchers from University of Freiburgs Humanoids Robots Laboratory Have demonstrated a NAO humanoid capable of climbing spiral staircases, which are more challenging to scale than their non-curving counterparts. A laser range scanner on the top of the robots head provides a global estimation of the bots position, the humanoid uses a 3D model of staircase to match up with the images it captures on each step. This system lets it get a grip on its geography to successfully detect stair edges and make it to the top with nary a trip. The humanoid robot can accurately locate itself towards the stairs and climb them reliably. Dont forget to look at the video.
