Towards a factored analysis of legged locomotion models

In this paper, we report on a new stability analysis for hybrid legged locomotion systems based on factorization of return maps. We apply this analysis to a family of models of the spring loaded inverted pendulum (SLIP) with different leg recirculation strategies. We obtain a necessary condition for the asymptotic stability of those models, which is formulated as an exact algebraic expression despite the non-integrability of the SLIP dynamics. We outline the application of this analysis of other models of legged locomotion and it importance for the stability of legged robots and animals.