"Thank you very much, Mr. Roboto!" Japanese scientists are working on a robot driver capable of operating conventional automobiles. The University of Tokyo researchers have developed a humanoid machine named Musashi that drives a regular car like a human. They recently tested Musashi by having it drive a Toyota COMS electric car.
How Does the Robot Driver Work?
Musashi, described as a "musculoskeletal humanoid," helps test learning control systems. Developed since 2019, it has 74 muscles and 39 joints, mirroring the mechanics and proportions of the human body. The robot's eyes are equipped with high-resolution vision cameras that can pan and tilt, enabling it to check side mirrors and keep an eye on the road.
During testing, Musashi successfully completed a two-minute turn at moderate speed by releasing the brake pedal without using the accelerator. It also navigated a junction by identifying traffic lights and reacted to objects and people in its path. However, it faced challenges in maintaining consistent speed on hills when using the accelerator. Researchers are committed to improving Musashi based on these results.
The Future of Robot Drivers
The progress of Musashi could lead to a future where existing vehicles are upgraded with self-driving capabilities. This practical approach to modernization could also revolutionize public transportation, with robot drivers operating taxis, buses, and other vehicles. Other countries are also exploring similar technologies, such as MIT's AI copilot for planes and AI systems operating aircraft in China and the US.
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