SpinybotII climbing robot, scaling a wall. This robot has been designed to mimic (biomimetics) the climbing ability of insects and spiders. Each foot is covered with rows of tiny metal spikes that grip onto small bumps and pits on brick or concrete walls, enabling the robot to climb vertically. A low centre of gravity and tail ensure the robot is stable. An alternating tripod gait (two legs on one side and one on the opposite side) produces locomotion similar to insects and other multi-legged animals. Future versions of climbing robots could be used for surveillance and inspection of hard to reach locations. Photographed in 2005 at Stanford University, USA.