ASIMO

Asimo Information

ASIMO (28 April 2011)
Manufacturer Honda
Year of creation 2000
Website asimo.honda.com

ASIMO, an acronym for Advanced Step in Innovative Mobility,[1] is a humanoid robot designed and developed by Honda. Introduced on 21 October 2000, ASIMO was designed to be a multi-functional mobile assistant.[2] With aspirations of helping those who lack full mobility, ASIMO is frequently used in demonstrations across the world to encourage the study of science and mathematics.[3] At 130 cm (4 ft 3 in) tall and 50 kg (110 lb), ASIMO was designed to operate in real-world environments, with the ability to walk or run on two feet at speeds of up to 6 kilometres per hour (3.7 mph).[2] In the USA, ASIMO is part of the Innoventions attraction at Disneyland and has been featured in a 15-minute show called "Say 'Hello' to Honda's ASIMO" since June 2005.[4] The robot has made public appearances around the world, including the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), the Miraikan Museum and Honda Collection Hall in Japan, and the Ars Electronica festival in Austria.[5]

Development History

P3 model (left) compared to ASIMO

Honda began developing humanoid robots in the 1980s, including several prototypes that preceded ASIMO. It was the company's goal to create a walking robot. E0 was the first bipedal (two-legged) model produced as part of the Honda E series, which was an early experimental line of humanoid robots created between 1986 and 1993. This was followed by the Honda P series of robots produced from 1993 through 1997, which included the first self-regulating, humanoid walking robot with wireless movements.[6][7]

The research conducted on the E- and P-series led to the creation of ASIMO. Development began at Honda's Wako Fundamental Technical Research Center in Japan in 1999 and ASIMO was unveiled in October 2000.[8][9]

Differing from its predecessors, ASIMO was the first to incorporate predicted movement control, allowing for increased joint flexibility and a smoother, more human-like walking motion.[10] Introduced in 2000, the first version of ASIMO was designed to function in a human environment, which would enable it to better assist people in real-world situations. Since then, several updated models have been produced to improve upon its original abilities of carrying out mobility assistance tasks. A new ASIMO was introduced in 2005, with an increased running speed to 3.7 mph, which is twice as fast as the original robot.[10] ASIMO fell during an attempt to climb stairs at a presentation in Tokyo in December 2006,[11] but then a month later, ASIMO demonstrated tasks such as kicking a football, running and walking up and down a set of steps at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Nevada.[12]

In 2007, Honda updated ASIMO's intelligence technologies, enabling multiple ASIMO robots to work together in coordination.[13] This version also introduced the ability to step aside when humans approach the robot and the ability to return to its charging unit upon sensing low battery levels.[13]

Features and technology

Form

ASIMO stands 130 cm (4 ft 3 in) tall and weighs 54 kg (119 lb). Research conducted by Honda found that the ideal height for a mobility assistant robot was between 120 cm and the height of an average adult, which is conducive to operating door knobs and light switches.[6][14] ASIMO is powered by a rechargeable 51.8 V lithium-ion battery with an operating time of one hour. Switching from a nickel metal hydride in 2004 increased the amount of time ASIMO can operate before recharging.[15] ASIMO has a three-dimensional computer processor that was created by Honda and consists of a three stacked die, a processor, a signal converter and memory.[16] The computer that controls ASIMO's movement is housed in the robot's waist area and can be controlled by a PC, wireless controller, or voice commands.[17]

Abilities

ASIMO has the ability to recognize moving objects, postures, gestures, its surrounding environment, sounds and faces, which enables it to interact with humans. The robot can detect the movements of multiple objects by using visual information captured by two camera "eyes" in its head and also determine distance and direction. This feature allows ASIMO to follow or face a person when approached.[6] The robot interprets voice commands and human gestures, enabling it to recognize when a handshake is offered or when a person waves or points, and then respond accordingly.[17] ASIMO's ability to distinguish between voices and other sounds allows it to identify its companions. ASIMO is able to respond to its name and recognizes sounds associated with a falling object or collision. This allows the robot to face a person when spoken to or look towards a sound. ASIMO responds to questions by nodding or providing a verbal answer in different languages and can recognize approximately 10 different faces and address them by name.[17]

Mobility

ASIMO has a walking speed of 2.7 kilometres per hour (1.7 mph) and a running speed of 6 kilometres per hour (3.7 mph).[18] Its movements are determined by floor reaction control and target Zero Moment Point control,[17] which enables the robot to keep a firm stance and maintain position. ASIMO can adjust the length of its steps, body position, speed and the direction in which it is stepping. Its arms, hands, legs, waist and neck also have varying degrees of movement.[6] The technology that allows the robot to maintain its balance was later used by Honda when it began the research and development project for its motorized unicycle, U3-X, in 2009.[19][20] ASIMO has a total of 34 degrees of freedom. The neck, shoulder, wrist and hip joints each have three degrees of freedom, while each hand has four fingers and a thumb that have two degrees of freedom. Each ankle has two degrees of freedom, and the waist, knees and elbows each have one degree of freedom.[6]

There are sensors that assist in autonomous navigation. The two cameras inside the head are used as a visual sensor to detect obstacles. The lower portion of the torso has ground sensor which comprises one laser sensor and one infrared sensor. The laser sensor is used to detect ground surface. The infrared sensor with automatic shutter adjustment based on brightness is used to detect pairs of floor markings to confirm the navigable paths of the planned map. The pre-loaded map and the detection of floor markings help the robot to precisely identify its present location and continuously adjusting its position. There are front and rear ultrasonic sensors to sense the obstacles. The front sensor is located at the lower portion of the torso together with the ground sensor. The rear sensor is located at the bottom of the backpack.[21]

Impact and technologies

Honda's work with ASIMO led to further research on Walking Assist™ devices that resulted in innovations such as the Stride Management Assist and the Bodyweight Support Assist.[22]

In honor of ASIMO's 10th anniversary in November 2010, Honda developed an application for the iPhone and Android smartphones called "Run with ASIMO." Users learn about the development of ASIMO by virtually walking the robot through the steps of a race and then sharing their lap times on Twitter and Facebook.[23]

Specifications

Original ASIMO
Model 2000, 2001, 2002 2004 2005, 2007 2011[24][25]
Mass 52 kg? 54 kg 48 kg[26]
Height 120 cm[27] 130 cm 130 cm
Width 45 cm 45 cm 45 cm
Depth 44 cm 37 cm 34 cm
Walking speed 1.6 km/hour 2.5 km/hour 2.7 km/hour
1.6 km/hour (carrying 1 kg)
Running speed N/A 3 km/hour 6 km/hour (straight)
5 km/hour (circling)		 9 km/hour (straight)
Airborne time
(Running motion)		 N/A 0.05 seconds 0.08 seconds
Battery Nickel metal hydride
38.4 V, 10 Ah, 7.7 kg
4 hours to fully charge		 Lithium ion
51.8 V, 6 kg
3 hours to fully charge
Continuous operating time 30 minutes 40 mins to 1 hour (walking) 1 hour (running/walking)
Degrees of Freedom 26
(head: 2, arm: 5×2, hand: 1×2, leg: 6×2)		 34[28]
(head: 3, arm: 7×2, hand: 2×2, torso: 1, leg: 6×2)		 57[25][29][30]
(head: 3, arm: 7×2, hand: 13×2, torso: 2, leg: 6×2)
Languages English & Japanese[31]
Images

sources:[27][32][33][34][35]

Public appearances

Conducting an orchestra
Dancing in Disneyland

Since ASIMO was introduced in 2000, the robot has traveled around the world and performed in front of international audiences. ASIMO made its first public appearance in the U.S. in 2002 when it rang the bell to open trade sessions for the New York Stock Exchange.[36] From January 2003 to March 2005, the robot toured the USA and Canada, demonstrating its abilities for more than 130,000 people.[37] From 2003 to 2004, ASIMO was part of the North American educational tour, which visited top science and technology museums and academic institutions throughout North America.[38] The goal of the tour was to encourage students to study science through a live show that highlighted ASIMO's abilities. Additionally, the robot visited top engineering and computer science colleges and universities across the USA as part of the ASIMO Technology Circuit Tour in an effort to encourage students to consider scientific careers.[39] In 2004, ASIMO was inducted into the Carnegie Mellon Robot Hall of Fame.[40] In March 2005, the robot walked the red carpet at the world premiere of the computer-animated film, Robots.[41] In June 2005, ASIMO became a feature in a show called "Say 'Hello' to Honda's ASIMO" at Disneyland's Innoventions attraction, which was a part of the Tomorrowland area of the park.[4] This was the only permanent installation of ASIMO in North America until Innoventions was closed in April 2015.[42]

The robot first visited the United Kingdom in January 2004 for public demonstrations at the Science Museum in London.[43] ASIMO continued on a world tour, making stops in countries such as Spain,[44] the United Arab Emirates,[45] Russia,[46] South Africa[47] and Australia.[48] In October 2008, ASIMO greeted Prince Charles during a visit to the Miraikan Museum in Tokyo, where it performed a seven-minute step and dance routine.[49]

In a demonstration at Honda's Tokyo headquarters in 2007, the company demonstrated new intelligence technologies that enabled multiple ASIMO robots to work together. The demonstration showed the robot's ability to identify and avoid oncoming people, work with another ASIMO, recognize when to recharge its battery and perform new tasks, such as carrying a tray and pushing a cart.[50]

In 2008, ASIMO conducted the Detroit Symphony Orchestra in a performance of "The Impossible Dream" to bring attention to its partnership with the Orchestra and support the performing arts in Detroit.[51] A 49-foot replica of ASIMO made with natural materials, such as lettuce seed, rice and carnations led the 120th Rose Parade in celebration of Honda's 50th year of operation in the USA.[52] Later that year, the robot made an appearance in Italy at the Genoa Science Festival.[53]

In January 2010, Honda debuted its "Living With Robots" documentary at the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah.[54] The film focuses on the experience of human interaction with robots like ASIMO.[55] ASIMO attended the Ars Electronica festival in Linz, Austria in September 2010, which allowed Honda to study the results of human and robot interaction and use the results to guide development of future versions of the robot.[56] In April 2011, ASIMO was demonstrated at the FIRST Championship in St. Louis, Missouri to encourage students to pursue studies in math, science and engineering.[3]

ASIMO visited the Ontario Science Center in Toronto in May 2011 and demonstrated its abilities to Canadian students. The robot later traveled to Ottawa for the unveiling of an exhibit at the Canadian Museum of Civilization 19 May through 22 May 2011.[57]

ASIMO appeared as a guest on the British quiz show QI on 2 December 2011. After serving water to host Stephen Fry and dancing with comedienne Jo Brand, ASIMO won with 32 points.

ASIMO was also the inspiration behind 2012's film Robot & Frank, where a robot assists an aging man to commit his last job as a 'cat burglar'. The robot in the film, portrayed by an actor in costume, has the appearance of an ASIMO robot.

See also

References

  1. ↑ American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (2 September 2004). "ASIMO | Frequently Asked Questions" (PDF). Retrieved 7 October 2015.
  2. 1 2 Kornblum, Janet (22 November 2000). "Meet Honda's ASIMO, a helpful Mr. Roboto". USA Today. Retrieved 21 July 2011.
  3. 1 2 Volkmann, Kelsey (28 April 2011). "Honda's ASIMO visits FIRST robotics event". St. Louis Business Journal. Retrieved 9 August 2011.
  4. 1 2 "Mickey Welcomes ASIMO to Disneyland's 50th Anniversary". Physorg. 2 June 2005. Retrieved 15 July 2011.
  5. ↑ "Robot meet and greet: ASIMO works on its social skils this week". Scientific American. 2 September 2010. Retrieved 15 July 2011.
  6. 1 2 3 4 5 Ford, Jason (22 November 2000). "Two legs good". The Engineer. Retrieved 27 July 2011.
  7. ↑ Hanlon, Mike. "Twenty years in the making – ASIMO the humanoid robot". Gizmag. Retrieved 29 September 2011.
  8. ↑ Hudson, Paul (31 October 2011). "Honda's ASIMO robot is 10 years old". The Daily Telegraph. Retrieved 21 July 2011.
  9. ↑ "Inside ASIMO". AI. Retrieved 18 July 2011.
  10. 1 2 Jones, K.C. (13 December 2005). "Honda Turns Asimo Robot Into Speedy Errand Assistant". Information Week. Retrieved 27 July 2011.
  11. ↑ Lam, Brian (11 December 2006). "Honda ASIMO vs. Slippery Stairs". Gizmodo. Retrieved 15 July 2011.
  12. ↑ Frucci, Adam (9 January 2007). "Honda Asimo Can Handle Stairs Like a Pro Now". Gizmodo. Retrieved 15 July 2011.
  13. 1 2 "Humanoid watches manners". The Star. 12 December 2007. Retrieved 5 October 2011.
  14. ↑ Jha, Alok (17 February 2004). "Meet the home help of the future". The Guardian. Retrieved 26 July 2011.
  15. ↑ Honda. "The Honda ASIMO Robot". Retrieved 15 July 2011.
  16. ↑ Hiratsuka, Mark (30 January 2008). "Honda Creates 3D CPU". Digital World Tokyo. Retrieved 27 July 2011.
  17. 1 2 3 4 Obringer, Lee Ann and Strickland, Jonathan. "Honda ASIMO Robot". How Stuff Works. Retrieved 15 July 2011.
  18. ↑ New ASIMO, Honda.com. Retrieved 7 June 2012.
  19. ↑ Raphael, J.R. (24 September 2009). "Honda's U3-X:A Geek-Friendly Unicycle". PC World. Retrieved 21 July 2011.
  20. ↑ "OAP unicycle unveiled in Japan". BBC News. 24 September 2009. Retrieved 27 July 2011.
  21. ↑ ASIMO Technical Information (PDF). Honda Motor Co., Ltd. September 2007. p. 28.
  22. ↑ Ngo, Dong (14 April 2009). "Honda walking-assist gear steps on U.S. soil". CNET. Retrieved 21 July 2011.
  23. ↑ Hudson, Paul (31 October 2010). "Honda's Asimo robot is 10 years old". The Daily Telegraph. Retrieved 21 July 2011.
  24. ↑ "Honda Unveils All-new ASIMO with Significant Advancements "Honda Robotics" established as new collective name to represent Honda robotics research and all product applications". Honda Worldwide site. 8 November 2011. Retrieved 6 May 2013.
  25. 1 2 基本仕様 (in Japanese). Honda Worldwide site. November 2011. Retrieved 6 May 2013.
  26. ↑ jornyak, Tim (8 November 2011). "Asimo does bottles, lovey-dovey hand gestures". CNET. Retrieved 9 November 2011.
  27. 1 2 Honda Worldwide | 15 December 2004 "Honda Reveals Technologies Next-Generation ASIMO". Honda Worldwide (15 December 2004). Retrieved 12 June 2011.
  28. ↑ ASIMO's Specifications. Asimo.honda.com. Retrieved 12 June 2011.
  29. ↑ ASIMO's. Asimo.honda.com. Retrieved 8 November 2011.
  30. ↑ ASIMO Specifications | ASIMO Innovations by Honda. Asimo.honda.com. Retrieved 17 February 2015.
  31. ↑ "Latest Version of ASIMO Makes North American Debut in New York". Honda. 17 April 2014. Retrieved 8 February 2015.
  32. ↑ Honda Worldwide | ASIMO | Next-Generation. Honda Worldwide (15 December 2004). Retrieved 12 June 2011.
  33. ↑ Honda Worldwide | World News | News Releases | 20 November 2000. Honda Worldwide (20 November 2000). Retrieved 12 June 2011.
  34. ↑ Honda Worldwide | ASIMO. World.honda.com. Retrieved 12 June 2011.
  35. ↑ American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (20 December 2006). "ASIMO | Frequently Asked Questions" (PDF). Retrieved 7 October 2015.
  36. ↑ Hesseldahl, Arik (21 February 2002). "Say Hello to Asimo". Forbes. Retrieved 27 July 2011.
  37. ↑ Ulanoff, Lance (28 January 2003). "ASIMO Robot to Tour U.S.A". PC Magazine. Retrieved 9 August 2011.
  38. ↑ Haggs (26 February 2011). "ASIMO Tours North America". Absolute Insight. Retrieved 9 August 2011.
  39. ↑ Spice, Byron (2 May 2003). "Robot of future harkens back to the past". Post Gazette. Retrieved 9 August 2011.
  40. ↑ "2004 Inductees Ceremony". Carnegie Mellon. Retrieved November 10, 2015.
  41. ↑ Carroll, Larry (21 March 2005). "Halle Berry, Amanda Bynes, Robin Williams Roll Out for 'Robots' Premiere Ewan McGregor, Harland Williams, real robot also turn out". MTV. Retrieved 9 August 2011.
  42. ↑ White, Charlie (29 August 2007). "Honda ASIMO to Return to Disneyland". Gizmodo. Retrieved 15 July 2011.
  43. ↑ Pease, Roland (16 February 2004). "Honda's humanoid robot hits UK". BBC News. Retrieved 14 September 2011.
  44. ↑ "ASIMO Welcomes the King of Spain" (News Release). Honda Europe Newsroom Archives. 26 May 2004. Retrieved 14 September 2011.
  45. ↑ "Dubai Motor Show 2005" (Video). AVT Khyber TV News (Dubai, UAE). Retrieved 14 September 2011.
  46. ↑ "New ASIMO makes Russian Debut at Moscow International Motor Show" (News Release). Moscow, Russia: Honda Motor Co. Newsroom Archives. 26 August 2008. Retrieved 14 September 2011.
  47. ↑ Venter, Irma (31 August 2011). "Asimo humanoid robot to show off some new skills at Joburg Motor Show". Engineering News (South Africa). Retrieved 14 September 2011. An earlier generation of the Asimo robot visited South Africa for the first time at the Auto Africa motor show in 2006.
  48. ↑ Amalfi, Carmelo (29 September 2006). "World's most advanced robot visits Perth Royal Show". Western Australia Science Network. Retrieved 14 September 2011.
  49. ↑ Alderson, Andrew (28 October 2008). "Prince Charles Meets Asimo the Robot on Japanese Tour". The Daily Telegraph. Retrieved 12 July 2011.
  50. ↑ Honda (11 December 2007). "Honda Develops Intelligence Technologies Enabling Multiple Asimo Robots to Work Together in Coordination". Asimo.Honda.com. Retrieved 9 August 2011.
  51. ↑ Van Buskirk, Eliot (23 April 2008). "Honda Robot Will Conduct Detroit Symphony". Wired. Retrieved 27 July 2011.
  52. ↑ McKeegan, Noel (21 December 2008). "49-foot tall ASIMO rolls into California". Gizmag. Retrieved 9 August 2011.
  53. ↑ Energetic (21 October 2009). "New Asimo to debut at the Genoa Science Festival". S2KI. Retrieved 9 August 2011.
  54. ↑ "Asimo Attends Sundance". Robot Living. 14 January 2010. Retrieved 9 August 2011.
  55. ↑ McCarthy, Erin (27 January 2010). "Asimo Headlines at the 2010 Sundance Film Festival (With Video!)". Popular Mechanics. Retrieved 9 August 2011.
  56. ↑ "Robot meet and greet: ASIMO works on its social skils this week". Scientific American. 2 September 2010. Retrieved 15 July 2011.
  57. ↑ Oliveira, Michael (13 May 2011). "Honda's humanoid robot Asimo seen as human helper of the future". News 1130.com. Retrieved 9 August 2011.

External links

This article is issued from Wikipedia - version of the Thursday, January 28, 2016. The text is available under the Creative Commons Attribution/Share Alike but additional terms may apply for the media files.