Japanese scientists have developed a new humanoid robot that can move naturally by itself utilising embedded neural network.
According to an Engadget report, the robot, dubbed Alter, has a ‘human-like’ face and is powered by 42 pneumatic actuators and a central pattern generator (CPG).
The report further explained that the CPG features a neural network that replicates neurons that assists the eerie robot create movement patterns of it own, triggered by sensors that can detect proximity, temperature, and humidity.
Though the inclusion of a humidity sensor stays blurred, it must be mechanism to free-flowing movement. Strangely, users who see this robot reportedly felt that the robot was alive even though the setup suggests otherwise.
While there have been numerous humanoid robots developed in the past, this particular one is an attempt to build a self-movable robot. With a neural network in place, the movement of the robot is flexible in contrast to other humanoid robots.
Regarding aesthetics, the arm movement, head and posture of the robot adjusts and changes on the system’s own desire.
All this is possible due to the neural network behind the scene, offering multiple movement modes, toggling between longer movement and more random ‘chaos’ mode.
All the aforementioned sensors act like the robot’s skin, helping identify an environment and react accordingly.
Currently, the makers of the robot want have put it up for display and are figuring out new ways to make it better.
The underlining aspect of this robot is its tendency to move by itself without any interference, which is a significant step forward in the field of robotics.
