Robot learns how to escape from exhibition

Scientists running a pioneering experiment with "living robots" which think for themselves were amazed to find one escaping from the centre where it "lives".

The small unit, called Gaak, was one of 12 that are taking part in a "survival of the fittest" test at the Magna science centre in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, which has been running since March.

Gaak made its bid for freedom yesterday after it had been taken out of the arena where hundreds of visitors watch the machines learning as they do daily battle.

Professor Noel Sharkey said he turned his back on the drone and returned 15 minutes later to find it had forced its way out of the small makeshift paddock it was being kept in.

He later found it had travelled down an access slope and through the front door of the centre. It was discovered at the main entrance to the car park when a visitor nearly flattened it with his car.

Professor Sharkey said: "Since the experiment went live in March they have all learnt a significant amount and are becoming more intelligent by the day, but the fact that it had ability to navigate itself out of the building and along the concrete floor to the gates has surprised us all."

He added: "There's no need to worry, as although they can escape they are perfectly harmless and won't be taking over just yet."

Dan Lowthorpe, 27, from Sheffield, the motorist who nearly prematurely terminated Gaak, said: "I came especially to see the new robots. You can imagine how surprised I was when I nearly ran over one on my way in. I knew the robots interacted with each other but didn't expect to be personally greeted by one."