GabyMost humanoid robots They pick up objects with their hands. But we, humans, use our chests, thighs, and shoulders for this, especially when carrying something bulky. A new soft robot from the Japanese company Toyota also engages different parts of its body when performing tasks.
Robotics engineers from the Toyota Research Institute have dressed the humanoid Punyo in something resembling a large striped sweater. It is made from sticky materials that create a soft, pliable layer over the robot’s hard metal skeleton. The fabric is filled with tactile sensors that allow Punyo to accurately feel what it is holding. It should be noted that this endearing robot loves to hug.
Puno’s hands end in inflatable manipulator-pads that can deform as needed. On their inner surface, there is a camera-controlled dotted pattern. Through this system, the humanoid robot receives information about the objects it touches. Additionally, its hands have extra softness thanks to a series of 13 air-filled chambers that extend from the shoulder to the wrist. The pressure in these chambers can be individually adjusted to achieve optimal stiffness, depending on the actions the robot is performing.
Using remote control, robotics is teaching Punyo to manipulate various large objects. Sometimes he leans forward, presses items to his chest, and leans back to lift them. He can also toss a large water bottle onto his shoulder and hold it, the publication reported. New Atlas .
In the video, the engineers teach Punyo how to carry and put a teddy bear in the closet, move mats, roll pillows, and boxes, throw a ball, fold laundry into a basket, and do many other useful things.
In September, the Toyota Research Institute showcased remarkable progress in teaching robots. They were shown how to perform dozens of different kitchen tasks, including spreading butter on bread, peeling potatoes, rolling out pizza dough, and flipping pancakes with a spatula. Using a learning system, the robots acquired new skills and replicated everything they observed.
Using Punyo as an example, engineers employ the same process. training of AI but with an added element of variable selection. The command, for example, determines how accurately the robot should mimic human movements or how prioritized speed and efficiency are in its operation.
