Osaka University's AFFETTO is a Caregiver's Teaching Tool
Peter Vallas — February 9, 2011 — Tech
References: osaka-u.ac.jp & technabob
Osaka University in Japan has come up with a new technical advancement in the field of robotics. The students and staff have developed a robotic baby head that models a baby's facial expressions.
Osaka University created the AFFETTO project to be used and loved by human caregivers. At first look a robotic baby head doesn't exactly seem that all that cute, but rather eerie. It is a forward advancement in robotics, however.
Implications - Technological advancements are seemingly never-ending and are becoming more impressive than ever. With lifelike robots that not only look and act like humans, but also mimic human facial expressions, robotic figures are no longer something to fear, but can even be appealing in their appearance, moving away from the cold, intimidating stigma typically associated with technology. By making a product more "lifelike," businesses can pique consumer interest.
Osaka University created the AFFETTO project to be used and loved by human caregivers. At first look a robotic baby head doesn't exactly seem that all that cute, but rather eerie. It is a forward advancement in robotics, however.
Implications - Technological advancements are seemingly never-ending and are becoming more impressive than ever. With lifelike robots that not only look and act like humans, but also mimic human facial expressions, robotic figures are no longer something to fear, but can even be appealing in their appearance, moving away from the cold, intimidating stigma typically associated with technology. By making a product more "lifelike," businesses can pique consumer interest.
Trend Themes
1. Lifelike Robotics - Advancements in robotics are creating lifelike robots that can mimic human facial expressions and behaviors.
2. Caretaker Robots - Robotic figures that mimic human needs and behavior can be used as teaching tools for future caregivers.
3. Humanoid Education - Educational institutions are incorporating humanoid robots into their curriculum as a teaching tool for human behavior.
Industry Implications
1. Robotics Industry - The development of lifelike robots opens up new opportunities for the robotics industry to expand into the consumer market.
2. Education Industry - The use of humanoid robots as teaching tools creates new opportunities for the education industry to incorporate innovative technology into the classroom.
3. Healthcare Industry - Caretaker robots have potential to be utilized in the healthcare industry as a means of providing companionship and assistance to patients.
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