March 17, 2008
The “Phobot,” a robot designed by a team of students from the University of Amsterdam, was voted the public’s favorite at a conference on human-robot interaction in Amsterdam on March 15.
The Phobot won the crowd over with antic displays intended to mimic human phobias.
When first exposed to a fear-inspiring object — in this case a menacing larger robot — the Phobot retreats and then spins in circles in apparent panic.
Later, the robot is able to overcome its “fear” by first being exposed to small robots and working its way up to larger ones, and mimicking the psychological principle of “graded exposure.”
A total of seven teams from around the world attended the competition.
By People’s Daily Online
It feels better if you hold its hand? It’s a little creepy if you ask me. Also in development is Zeno, the robot boy companion.
He has everything he needs to become your friend; he sees, hears, talks and remembers who you are. He even walks and performs amazing stunts. His face is soft like yours so he can show emotions, just like you–happy, sad, puzzled, and lots more. Operate him by himself and see a few of his antics, or let him link to your computer wirelessly so he can have complete conversations with you! Plus, if you use your computer to help Zeno connect to the internet, he can keep learning and growing smarter. He’ll even help you learn about the world around you.
Because people need yet another reason to not leave their homes and make real friends.