February 24, 2006
Animated Robot For Hospitalized Children
The Robotics & Multibody Research Group (Brussels University) is working on Anty, an intelligent soft robot that will entertain long-term hospitalized children. When developed the robot will walk, talk and show feelings. According to the creators, Anty will be able to develop different personalities, so kids won't get bored with him.
Anty uses sensors for vision, audio and touch to interact with the children. By means of artificial intelligence, Anty is capable of understanding and expressing emotions.
In the next revision, a screen will be added on the belly of the toy to transmit explanations about a forthcoming operation or to display games for the child to play.
Anty will be able to look in the direction of a sound. Its artificial intelligence will determinate when Anty has been caressed, hit or hugged and the robot will react accordingly.
A first prototype of the fully autonomous intelligent robot is to be expected in 2007. As it is meant for kids, the robot will weight around 8 pounds and under 30 inches high.
Posted by rsk at February 24, 2006 11:35 AM