Meet the world's 'most advanced' humanoid robot

Summary

Engineered Arts has been revolutionizing robotics for two decades with their latest humanoid robot, Ameca. Combining advanced artificial intelligence and a lifelike artificial body, Ameca is designed for engaging interactions in entertainment and research. It features sophisticated perception through cameras and sensors, enabling it to mimic human facial expressions. Although currently immobile, the company is working on making it walk. Ameca showcases its human-like attributes with jokes and recommendations, emphasizing the company's mission to foster collaboration, not fear. With around 50 units produced, Ameca represents a significant leap in humanoid robotics, aiming to leave users in awe.

Takeaways

• 🤖 Engineered Arts has been in the robot-making business for two decades, with significant advancements since 2018.
• 👤 Ameca is the latest humanoid robot model, designed for interaction with humans in entertainment and research.
• 🧠 The robot integrates artificial intelligence with an artificial body, allowing for human-like movements and gestures.
• 👀 Ameca features cameras for vision and beamforming microphones that simulate human hearing.
• 😮 The robot's facial expressions can be unsettling, prompting efforts to avoid the 'Uncanny Valley' effect by making its mechanics visible.
• ⚙️ Ameca's head contains 27 motors to replicate human facial movements and utilizes large language models for interaction.
• 🔒 Engineered Arts is exploring self-hosted models for customers seeking more control over their data and AI functionality.
• 🏋️‍♂️ Current challenges include achieving human-like mobility and replicating the complexity of human muscle movements.
• 🌍 Approximately 50 desktop and 30 full-sized Ameca robots have been manufactured and shipped to 27 countries.
• 🎉 Ameca is designed to leave users in awe, embodying the company's vision of innovation and human-robot collaboration.

Q & A

What is the name of Engineered Arts' latest humanoid robot?

The latest humanoid robot from Engineered Arts is called Ameca.

What technology does Ameca combine to achieve human-like interaction?

Ameca combines artificial intelligence (AI) with an artificial body to enable human-like movements and gestures.

What features allow Ameca to perceive its environment?

Ameca is equipped with cameras in its eyes, beamforming microphones, and various sensors across its body to detect position and force.

How does Engineered Arts address the 'Uncanny Valley' phenomenon with Ameca's design?

To avoid the 'Uncanny Valley,' Ameca's design emphasizes its robotic nature with visible mechanics and a plain-colored face.

What is one significant limitation of using commercial AI models like GPT-4 for Ameca?

A significant limitation is the lack of control over data and customization when using commercial AI models.

What is the current mobility status of Ameca?

Currently, Ameca is not mobile, although Engineered Arts is actively working on developing a walking version.

What challenges do engineers face in making Ameca mobile?

Engineers face challenges related to power requirements, battery life, and developing hardware that can accurately simulate human muscle movement.

How many Ameca robots have been manufactured and shipped worldwide?

Engineered Arts has manufactured around 50 desktop models and 30 full-sized Amecas that have been shipped to 27 countries.

What is the approximate cost to purchase a standing version of Ameca?

The cost to purchase a standing version of Ameca is around £200,000.

What is the intended purpose of Ameca according to its design?

Ameca is designed to foster harmony and collaboration between humans and robots, rather than pose a threat.