T'ai Chi robots to rule the world?
Robots in China are learning martial arts to "help" their human masters. Be afraid.
Humanoid robots developed at the Beijing Institute of Technology can do more than perform T'ai Chi maneuvers and answer simple questions when interacting with humans. Duan Xingguang, the professor in charge of the efforts, believes we are heading into an era where robots will become part of our daily lives.
The bots were introduced in 2003 and have been updated with a new mechanical design and properties that allow for better interaction and fluidity of movement.
Professor Duan Xingguang said that they will continue to improve the robots' functionality and reliability while striving to lower production costs. He also compared the current state of robotics technology to that of personal computers three decades ago, and expects Moore's Law will lead to breakthroughs allowing humanoid robots to become meaningful partners to human beings in the future.
I look forward to the day robots can take care of my mundane tasks. Considering I already have them cooking ramen and making pancakes, that day can't be far behind. However, I'm not sure it's a great idea to teach them to fight or use knives.
(Via Engadget)
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