Robotics
| Hanson Robotics is showing the first production unit of their R-50 Robokind humanoid robot. With a Frubber covered semi-expressive face featuring moving eyelids and lips, Zeno is unique among this size of commercially-available research platforms. |
In the video, Zeno a humanoid robot measuring 27" high, introduces himself and explains his features. For some reason, the video makers decided to green-screen in a dark, drab industrial background in the video behind a real robot.
Zeno has an impressive 37 degrees-of-freedom and Hanson's trademark rubber face. Compared with the earlier prototype Zeno robots, the face is less cartoonish and more integrated. According to PlasticPals, the change may have come about as a result of the preferences of autistic children. In related studies by researchers at the University of Hertfordshire, children expressed an affinity for robots with semi-realistic faces that are often described as “creepy” by others. For evidence, check out their KASPAR robot.
Each eye on Zeno houses an HD camera, for face detection. Zeno also announces that his 'sister' robot, Alice will be available later this year.
Zeno's new AI engine seems impressive based on the video. The system is housed on an embedded computer. Like Siri, Zeno can interact via voice recognition and cite back relevant triva.
Zeno's market competitors are Robotis DARwIn-OP and Aldebaran Robotics’ NAO, and like these versions, the pricetag really only makes the units accessible to research institutions. That said, Zeno states in the video that the company is working on smaller 'cousins' that will be available next year.
With that in mind, you may be able to have your very own Hanson Robokind soon.
SOURCE IEEE Spectrum
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