Photos: Robots get friendly with humans
At London's Science Museum, robots named Berti and Erwin show how, with the wave of a hand or a smiling countenance, they can mingle with people.
Bristol Elumotion Robotic Torso 1, aka Berti
The robot has been jointly developed by Bristol Robotics Lab and robotic hardware developer Elumotion, after the former decided it wanted to get more involved with humanoid robotics.
Berti was on display at London's Science Museum last week and Silicon.com headed over to meet him.
Berti's hands
The specially designed hands, seen here, can move in several different ways--the thumb can move separately from the fingers, for example--which together with the arm can accurately portray the movements of a human being.
Human hand meets robot hand
Rock, paper, scissors
Berti, public speaker
Erwin the robot, frowning
Erwin the robot, smiling
Erwin is part of the Felix Growing project, which is aimed at making robots appear more human so they can be successfully integrated into homes and businesses in the future.
John Murray from the University of Hertfordshire told Silicon.com that the technology could also be used to help autistic children develop their ability to relate to the others more effectively.
The robot also has microphones that can react to a human voice and can distinguish between different speakers.
Robot nursery
The robot can make out certain objects by comparing them to images stored on it. When it fails to discern something, it becomes "distressed," indicated by a red light appearing on its head. It can then be reassured by someone stroking it--or swiping a sensor on its back.
The robot is also able to recognize human faces and will react by wagging its tail and ears if it sees someone.