Honda has unveiled the newest version of Asimo, its advanced humanoid robot, now featuring the ability to communicate in sign language and climb stairs without stopping.
Asimo, which stands for Advanced Step in Innovative Mobility, was first introduced 14 years ago. Since then, engineers at the Japanese manufacturer have continued making improvements on the little guy, including physical advances, such as running and hopping on one leg, and dexterity improvements, all in aid of the company’s dream of creating a humanoid robot that can provide assistance to society.
“This is an exciting project for Honda,” says Honda humanoid robotics programme leader Satoshi Shigemi. “Our engineers are working tirelessly to develop new technologies aimed at helping Asimo work in a real-world environment.”
The new version of Asimo has undergone numerous changes to its 1.3 m, 50 kg body.
Developments in the lower body have enhanced stability and balance control, allowing the robot to climb more smoothly, run faster and change direction in a more controlled fashion.
Enhancements in the upper body include major increases in the degrees of freedom available in the hands.
Each hand now contains 13 degrees of freedom, which allows Asimo to perform many more intricate and precise tasks.
The increased hand dexterity provides additional movement in each finger, which also led to the development of Asimo’s new ability to communicate using both American and Japanese sign language.
Force sensors in the robot’s hands also provide instantaneous feedback, allowing Asimo to use the appropriate amount of force when performing a task. This allows the robot to pick up paper cups without crushing them, but also enables stronger force when necessary.
“It was obvious that overall flexibility was necessary, and many more complex tasks can now be performed because of the improved operational capacity in the hands,” notes Shigemi. “But, perhaps more importantly, these innovations enhance Asimo’s communication skills, which are essential to interact with human beings.”
The advanced technologies derived from research on Asimo have also benefitted other Honda business lines over the years, and found applications in the vehicle stability assist system developed for the Honda Civic, for example.