Tag: Robotic

Categories
Computers

Nissan’s Furry, Robotic Iruyo Puppet Comforts Your Crying Baby While You Drive

[ad_1]

About two years ago, I was in a car with my best friend and her toddler. She was driving, and I was sitting in the back next to her 10-month-old, who was tucked into his car seat. For a while, the ride was smooth—then the baby burst into tears. We tried every common trick to comfort him. I contorted my face into the silliest of poses, my friend burst into a catchy song, but our efforts were met with louder wails until finally—mercifully!—we pulled into my friend’s driveway and she was able to scoop her son up in her arms.

This scenario, minus the useless friend in the back, is probably familiar for many parents who drive alone with their young children. And it is the reason why Japanese automaker Nissan is developing a peculiar puppet to relieve backseat tantrums. It’s called Iruyo, which translates to “I’m here” in Japanese.

The fuzzy babysitter, which gives off big Elmo vibes, is in fact two puppets: “big Iruyo,” which is strapped to the backrest of the backseat, facing the baby; and “little Iruyo,” which sits in the driver’s cup holder. Big Iruyo does most of the work. When prompted by specific voice commands spoken by the parent, big Iruyo can wave its hands, cover its eyes for a game of peek-a-boo, or clap its hands as the parent sings.

Left Baby in car seat looking at furry toy. Right. Parent driving in the front.

Photograph: Nissan

A Bot for Tots

Rear-facing child seats are significantly safer than their front-facing counterparts, but they come with an inevitable flaw: you can’t see your child’s face while driving. That’s why Big Iruyo also comes with a built-in camera to monitor your child’s face. When your baby’s eyes are closed for longer than three seconds, big Iruyo will assume they are asleep and will convey the message to little Iruyo, which will in turn close its eyes to mirror your little one. When your baby reopens their eyes, little Iruyo will do the same—like a high-tech game of monkey see, monkey do.

Iruyo was designed by Tokyo ad agency TBWA\Hakuhodo, in collaboration with Nissan as well as one of Japan’s largest retail chains specializing in baby products, Akachan Honpo. The project started as a marketing campaign for Nissan’s sensing technology used in its driver-assistance system. For example, some auto models like the Nissan Ariya use a combination of radar sensors and front-facing cameras to continuously assess your environment and automate some of your driving, so you can take your hands off the wheel and feet off the pedals on a freeway.

Iruyo uses similar camera tech to assess your baby’s face and assist you with babysitting. TBWA assures me the robot’s camera only detects eye movement, which the company says should mitigate any privacy concerns associated with capturing full facial expressions.

[ad_2]

Source Article Link

Categories
News

MyCobot 280 Raspberry Pi robotic arm

MyCobot 280 Raspberry Pi robotic arm

If you have ever dreamt of owning your own precision robotic arm you might be interested in the  MyCobot 280 Pi. An advanced robotic arm that is powered by the Raspberry Pi mini PC and is reshaping the way we think about automation and education. With a price tag of £651/$799, this piece of technology is making sophisticated robotics more accessible than ever before. It’s a tool that’s not just for experts but for anyone with a passion for innovation and learning.

“Using Raspberry Pi microprocessor and Ubuntu Mate 20.04 operating system, myCobot 280 Pi can be used by connecting monitor, keyboard and mouse without PC master control. It is the first choice for building robot arm programming education, control logic development, robot application and ROS simulation experiment class. To help you quickly start the learning and application of six axis robotic arm.”

The MyCobot 280 Pi is a marvel of modern engineering, boasting a 330° working rotation arc and a reach of 280mm. This robotic arm is not just about its physical capabilities; it’s also about the brains behind its operation. At its core is the Raspberry Pi 4, a tiny but powerful computer that provides the MyCobot 280 Pi with its intelligence and connectivity. This integration allows the robotic arm to perform a wide range of tasks with precision and ease, making it an invaluable asset for those looking to delve into the world of robotics.

What sets the MyCobot 280 Pi apart is its six degrees of freedom. This means the arm can move in six different ways, allowing for intricate and precise movements that mimic the dexterity of a human arm. This level of control is essential for tasks that require a delicate touch, such as assembling small components or conducting detailed experiments. The arm’s flexibility is further enhanced by its compatibility with various programming languages and the Robot Operating System (ROS), which is widely used in robotics research and development.

Raspberry Pi robotic arm

The MyCobot 280 Pi is not just about its technical prowess; it’s also designed with longevity in mind. Its durable plastic casings protect the internal components, ensuring that the robotic arm can withstand the rigors of continuous use. This durability is crucial for educational environments, where the arm may be used by multiple users and subjected to frequent handling.

Here are some other articles you may find of interest on the subject of Raspberry Pi 5 :

In terms of design, the MyCobot 280 Pi is both functional and adaptable. Its six joints provide a wide range of motion, and the inclusion of LEGO connectors opens up a world of possibilities for customization. Users can easily attach accessories and bases, allowing the robotic arm to take on new forms and functions. The G-Base 2.0 ensures that the arm remains securely attached to a desk or work surface, providing a stable foundation for all activities.

The MyCobot 280 Pi’s performance is not limited to a single application. It has proven itself capable of handling a variety of tasks with exceptional precision. This versatility has led to its widespread adoption, with over 10,000 units sold in more than 50 countries. The robotic arm supports over 10 accessories, making it suitable for complex projects in commercial exhibitions and educational settings. Its ability to engage and inspire is evident in the diverse ways it is being used around the world.

MyCobot 280 Pi

When it comes to technical specifications, the MyCobot 280 Pi is well-equipped to handle a range of items with its payload capacity of up to 250g. It features multiple connectivity ports, including USB 3.0, USB 2.0, Ethernet, and micro-HDMI, which provide users with the flexibility to connect a variety of peripherals. Additional connectors like Grove and servo ports further expand the arm’s capabilities, allowing it to interface with an even broader array of devices and sensors.

The MyCobot 280 Pi stands out in the robotics market for its robust build, powerful servos, and versatile programming capabilities. It’s an exceptional choice for anyone looking for a sophisticated Raspberry Pi robotic arm that can meet the demands of both educational and professional environments. Whether you’re a teacher looking to bring robotics into the classroom, a researcher exploring new automation techniques, or a hobbyist eager to experiment with cutting-edge technology, the MyCobot 280 Pi offers a unique opportunity to engage with the world of robotics in a hands-on and meaningful way.

Designing and using robotic arms

A robotic arm is a type of mechanical arm, usually programmable, with similar functions to a human arm. The arm may be the sum total of the mechanism or may be part of a more complex robot. The links of such arms are connected by joints allowing either rotational motion (such as in an articulated robot) or translational (linear) displacement. The links of the arm are connected by joints to provide rotational motion.

In their design, robotic arms can vary greatly in size, shape, and capability. They range from small, precise devices used in medical and electronic applications, to large, industrial machines capable of lifting heavy loads. The complexity of the arm depends on the task it is designed to perform, with more complex tasks requiring more sophisticated control systems.

The control of robotic arms involves several key aspects. Firstly, the kinematics, which is the study of motion without considering the forces that cause it. This involves calculating the positions, velocities, and accelerations of the various parts of the robotic arm. Secondly, dynamics, which considers the forces that cause the motion, is crucial for understanding how the arm will react under different conditions. Lastly, control systems are used to manage the arm’s movements in a precise and intentional manner.

Robotic arms are used in numerous applications, including manufacturing, medical surgery, and space exploration. In manufacturing, they can perform tasks like welding, assembly, and material handling. In medicine, they assist in precise surgical procedures, often enhancing the capabilities of human surgeons. In space, robotic arms are essential for tasks like repairing satellites or moving cargo and equipment in environments where human activity is limited or impossible.

The development and use of robotic arms continue to evolve, incorporating advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance their capabilities, efficiency, and adaptability to various tasks.

This robotic arm is more than just a tool; it’s a gateway to understanding and harnessing the power of robotics. It’s an invitation to explore, to create, and to innovate. The MyCobot 280 Pi is not just about what it can do today but about the potential it unlocks for tomorrow. As we continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible, the MyCobot 280 Pi stands ready to be a trusted companion on that journey, bringing the future of robotics within reach for all. If you enjoyed Raspberry Pi projects you might also be interested in knowing how to run artificial intelligence (AI)  on a Raspberry Pi 5 using Ollama.

Filed Under: Hardware, Top News





Latest timeswonderful Deals

Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, timeswonderful may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.

Categories
News

AEON UP Xtreme 7100 mini PC built for robotic applications

AEON UP Xtreme 7100 mini PC

The world of robotics is constantly evolving, and with the introduction of the AAEON UP Xtreme 7100 robotics mini PC, we are witnessing a significant leap forward in the capabilities of robotic computing. AAEON, a renowned developer of advanced industrial and embedded computing platforms, has unveiled this new Mini PC that is set to make a substantial impact on the robotics industry. The UP Xtreme 7100 is a compact, yet powerful computing solution that is ideal for a range of robotic applications, including Automated Guided Vehicles (AGV), AGVs with AI, and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMR).

At the core of the UP Xtreme 7100 robotics mini PC are the Intel Core i3-N305 and Intel Processor N97 CPUs. These processors are chosen for their ability to deliver a perfect balance between energy efficiency and processing power. This is crucial for robotics applications where maintaining high performance without consuming excessive power is a must. The UP Xtreme 7100’s design is notably compact, which is a significant advantage when it comes to integrating the system into the tight confines of AGVs and AMRs. The board itself measures just 120.35 mm by 122.5 mm, and the Mini PC version has dimensions of 152 mm by 124 mm by 40 mm, showcasing its space-efficient design.

AEON UP Xtreme 7100

AEON UP Xtreme 7100 internal hardware

Here are some other articles you may find of interest on the subject of robotics :

Connectivity is a breeze with the UP Xtreme 7100, thanks to its wide array of I/O options. It includes terminal blocks for serial communication, a 30-pin connector for digital I/O and isolated RS-232/422/485, as well as several high-speed I/O ports. These ports include two RJ-45 ports, four USB Type-A ports, and one USB Type-C port that also supports DisplayPort 1.4a. For display output, there’s an eDP 1.3 connector. The device also facilitates easy integration with CANBus networks, which are essential for industrial and automotive applications, through its onboard CAN 2.0B, DIP switch, and LED indicators.

Durability is a key aspect of the UP Xtreme 7100 robotics mini PC, as it is built to withstand the rigors of industrial environments. It features a wide power input range and is designed to resist surges, vibrations, and shocks. The I/O ports are lockable, ensuring reliable performance even in challenging conditions. For those who require even more protection, there’s an optional shock absorber kit that can be added to the UP Xtreme 7100 Edge system-level solution, safeguarding the device from impacts and vibrations.

All-in-one robotics mini PC

Storage is another area where the UP Xtreme 7100 excels. It offers a variety of storage options, including up to 64 GB of eMMC, 6 Gb/s SATA, and an M.2 2280 M-Key slot. The device is also compatible with the Hailo-8 M.2 2280 AI module, which can significantly enhance its AI inferencing capabilities. To ensure that the UP Xtreme 7100 remains relevant in the future, it supports M.2 2230 E-Key and M.2 3052 B-Key for Wi-Fi and 5G connectivity, allowing users to keep their robotics systems up-to-date with the latest advancements in technology.

  • Intel Processor N-series, and Intel Core i3-N305 Processor
  • Low power consumption
  • 2.5GbE x 2 (Intel I226-IT)
  • 2-channel CAN 2.0B x 1
  • Watchdog timer, Onboard TPM 2.0
  • DIO/GPIO via Terminal Block
  • Cable-free design
  • Wide 9V~36V power input
  • Fanless design

The AAEON UP Xtreme 7100 robotics mini PC solution is a robust, versatile, and space-saving computing solution that is designed to meet the demanding needs of modern robotics. With its powerful Intel CPUs, extensive connectivity options, and a sturdy build, it is well-equipped to advance the field of robotics technology. Whether it’s for AGVs, AMRs, or other robotic applications, the UP Xtreme 7100 is ready to take on the challenges of today’s and tomorrow’s computing demands.

Filed Under: Hardware, Top News





Latest timeswonderful Deals

Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, timeswonderful may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.

Categories
News

Robotic AI developments on the horizon

Robotic AI developments on the horizon

The world of artificial intelligence is exploding at the moment thanks to huge advancements in AI technology and services made available during 2023. As a byproduct of the new large language models and AI agents being created we’re witnessing a significant shift in the capabilities of robots. Gone are the days when robots were limited to simple, repetitive tasks. Today, they’re stepping into roles that demand creativity and the ability to solve complex problems. The coming year, 2024, is expected to be a pivotal one, with experts predicting a major leap forward in robotic AI that could redefine what robots are capable of in the near future.

Robots are no longer just about doing the same task over and over. They’re starting to take on jobs that require them to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions. This AI robots change is thanks to the rapid development of AI models and algorithms that are becoming more sophisticated. For instance, robots can now handle complicated tasks that combine thinking and physical action, thanks to multimodal AI models.

The hardware of robots is also getting better, which is just as important as the software improvements. These hardware upgrades mean robots can do tasks that need more precision, like household chores. But it’s not just about the physical side of things; robots are getting smarter, too. They’re developing the ability to understand and learn, which is key for them to work on their own in different places.

Robotic AI advancements

We’re also seeing AI robots that can do more than just one specific job. Thanks to new technologies like Transformers and large language models, robots are starting to understand and interact in ways that are more like humans. This means they can be used for a wider range of tasks, which is great news for many industries.

Here are some other articles you may find of interest on the subject of robotics :

AI robots are getting better at doing many things at once. New models, like RT1 and RT2, are helping them learn how to switch between tasks and handle new situations. This kind of flexibility is really important for robots to be useful in the real world, where things can change quickly and without warning.

Having a lot of different and detailed training data is crucial for teaching AI robots how to do things. The Open X embodiment dataset and the RTX model are good examples of this. There’s also a new method called Auto RT that makes it easier to create a lot of training data, which helps robots learn and improve their skills faster. Plus, robots are getting better at tasks that require fine motor skills, which means they can do things they couldn’t do before.

How AI will be be integrated into robotics in the near future

Integrating artificial intelligence, particularly Transformers and large language models, with robotics represents a significant advancement in the field of AI and robotics. This integration is expected to enhance the capabilities of robots, making them more autonomous, interactive, and efficient in various tasks.

  • Understanding and Processing Natural Language: One of the primary integrations involves the use of large language models in enabling robots to understand and process natural language. This allows robots to interact more naturally with humans, understand commands, and even engage in complex conversations. For example, a robot in a customer service role could understand and respond to a wide range of customer queries with the help of a language model.
  • Contextual Understanding and Learning: Transformers in language models excel at understanding context, which is crucial for robots operating in dynamic environments. This means robots can learn from previous interactions and adjust their responses or actions accordingly. For instance, a domestic robot could learn household preferences and routines, adapting its tasks to suit the changing needs of the household.
  • Decision Making and Problem Solving: The integration of AI with robotics also enhances the robot’s decision-making capabilities. By processing large amounts of data and identifying patterns, robots can make informed decisions, solve problems, and even predict future needs or challenges. In industrial settings, this could mean optimizing production processes by predicting equipment failures or maintenance needs.
  • Sensor Data Interpretation: Robots are equipped with various sensors to interact with their environment. AI, particularly machine learning models, can interpret this sensor data more effectively, allowing for more nuanced and adaptive responses to environmental stimuli. For example, a robot navigating a warehouse can better understand and react to obstacles or changes in its path.
  • Ethical and Safe Interaction: As robots become more integrated into everyday life, ensuring ethical and safe interactions is crucial. AI models can be trained to recognize and adhere to ethical guidelines and safety protocols, ensuring that their actions do not harm humans or violate social norms.
  • Continuous Learning and Adaptation: Finally, the integration of AI with robotics paves the way for continuous learning and adaptation. Robots can learn from new data, adapt to new tasks, and improve their performance over time without requiring extensive reprogramming.

The idea of using AI robots in real-life situations, especially in fields like manufacturing and logistics, is getting more realistic. As robots start working in these areas, they’ll be able to collect more data and learn even faster. This could lead to big improvements in how these industries operate.

Looking ahead, the potential for robotic AI is enormous. The technologies we’ve talked about are laying the groundwork for a future where robots are more than just helpers—they’re partners in coming up with new ideas. As these advancements continue, we can expect them to have a big impact on both society and the way we work.

Filed Under: Technology News, Top News





Latest timeswonderful Deals

Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, timeswonderful may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.