Part 3/12:
Is It Really Running? Dissecting the Motion
One of the key questions raised was whether Optimus is genuinely running or merely walking fast. Dr. Walter pointed out that both walking and running are distinct at a mechanical level. A primary indicator of running is the flight phase — a moment when both feet are off the ground. In the footage, both feet are airborne toward the end of the stride, confirming that the robot is indeed in a running gait.