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ASIMO

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ASIMO (アシモ) is a humanoid robot created in 2000 by Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha.

ASIMO is 11th in a line of successive bipedal humanoid models created by Honda, starting with E0 in 1986 and with ASIMO being the latest design. ASIMO is considered the 4th man-like humanoid robot that can walk on two feet in a manner resembling human locomotion. Weighing 52 kilograms, the external design of the robot resembles a small astronaut wearing a backpack.

Etymology

The robot's name is a backronym in honor of science fiction writer Isaac Asimov, maker of the Three Laws of Robotics. Officially, the name stands for "Advanced Step in Innovative MObility". In Japanese, the name is pronounced ashimo and, not coincidentally, means "legs also".

Development History

Honda developed seven basic prototypes examining the principles of two-legged locomotion, the E-series. E0, the first prototype, debuted in 1986, with E1 through 3 following in 1987, and E4 through 7 in 1991.

Man-like prototypes

Three man-like prototypes preceded the current ASIMO 2000 model:

Features and Technology

Specifications

  • Weight: 43 kilograms
  • Walking speed: 0-1.6 km/h
  • Height: 120 cm
  • Width: 45 cm
  • Depth: 44 cm
  • Continuous operating time: 30 minutes
  • Degrees of Freedom: 26

Recognition Technology

With 2000's ASIMO model Honda added many features, labelled "Intelligence Technology", that enable ASIMO to interact better with humans. These features fall under 5 categories:

1. Recognition of moving objects

Using the visual information captured by the camera mounted in its head, ASIMO can detect the movements of multiple objects, assessing distance and direction. Common applications this feature would serve include the ability to follow the movements of people with its camera, to follow a person, or greet a person when he or she approaches.

2. Recognition of postures and gestures

ASIMO can also interpret the positioning and movement of a hand, recognizing postures and gestures. Because of this ASIMO can react and be directed not only to voice commands, but also to the natural movements of human beings. This enables him to, for example, recognize when a handshake is offered or when a person waves and respond accordingly. He can also recognize movement directions such as pointing.

3. Environment recognition

ASIMO can recognize the objects and terrain of his environment and act in a way that is safe for both himself and other humans. For example, recognizing potential hazards such as stairs, and by stopping and starting to avoid hitting humans or other moving objects.

4. Distinguishing sounds

ASIMO's ability to identify the source of sounds has been improved, and it can distinguish between voices and other sounds. He can respond to his name, face people when being spoken to, and recognize sudden, unusual sounds such as that of a falling object or a collision, and face in that direction.

5. Facial recognition

ASIMO has the ability to recognize faces, even when ASIMO or the human being is moving. He can individually recognize approximately 10 different faces. Once they are registered he can address them by name.

Network Integration

Utilizing networks such as the Internet, ASIMO can provide information and function better for various commercial applications, such as reception. His abilities fall under 2 categories:

1. Integration with user's network system

By connecting with a user's network ASIMO can offer many useful functions such as greeting visitors and informing personnel of the visitor's arrival by transmitting messages and pictures of the visitor's face and guide visitors to a predetermined location.

2. Internet connectivity

By accessing information via the Internet, ASIMO can, for example, become a provider of news and weather updates.

source: Honda Worldwide - ASIMO Technology (2004). [1]. Retrieved Dec. 24, 2004.

New prototype ASIMO model

A new research model was announced on December 15th, 2004, with new technology for smoother interaction with humans, greater walking and running speeds (up to 3 km/h), longer battery life, and improved balance and posture control. Additional motors that operate the thumbs independently were added, so that ASIMO can now hold objects of various shapes. A new "joint" on ASIMO's neck was also added to enhance its expressiveness.

Public appearances

  • In July 2003 and September 2004 ASIMO visited a Jakarta motor show to demonstrate his abilities and perform for the audience. Around 5,000 people visited ASIMO at the Honda Booth. ASIMO put on three shows per day, demonstrating his new movement skills including kicking a ball, riding a bike, walking, and dancing.
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