Androids and Robots

aiai walkie

Riding a special vehicle called a “walkie” that allows it to move freely and adjust its height, this monkey-shaped robot explains the exhibits to pavilion visitors. An interface that depicts emotions in conversation as abstract shapes forms its face.

Details

Role within the Pavilion
In ZONE 1: The Journey of Life, aiai walkie provides exhibit explanations, and next to the first-floor escalator, it guides visitors toward the next zone.
Dimensions
W618 × D618 × H1199–1519 mm (excluding tail)
Weight
39.3 kg
Specifications
  • Developed based on the mobile Cybernetic Avatar (CA) Teleco, developed as part of the Moonshot Research and Development Program* Goal 1 project: Realization of an Avatar-Symbiotic Society where Everyone Can Perform Active Roles without Constraint.
  • Display: Rectangular screen
  • Sensors: LiDAR sensors, microphone array, and camera
  • Actuators: Arms (up/down × 2), vertical lift, drive wheels × 2
  • Continuous operation: Over 20 hours
    Note: Shares its locomotion system with Petra
  • The design draws inspiration from the lotus-patterned round roof tiles of the Asuka period (592–710) and evokes the logo of the Expo ‘70 in Osaka, blending Japanese traditional motifs.
  • Vehicle part (walkie): 3D design

 

* The Moonshot Research and Development Program

This government-led program sets forth ambitious “moonshot” goals aimed at solving major societal challenges, such as super-aging populations and climate change, and supports bold R&D efforts. Goal 1 of the program is overseen by the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST). ISHIGURO Hiroshi serves as one of the project managers for Goal 1 and leads the project titled “Realization of an Avatar-Symbiotic Society where Everyone Can Perform Active Roles without Constraint.” This project promotes R&D to expand human physical, cognitive, and sensory capabilities through a Cybernetic Avatar (CA) platform, leveraging diverse forms of avatars including robots and CG, to realize daily life supported by CAs.

Functional Features
(1) Autonomous navigation and remote operation & dialogue

Both autonomous navigation and speech and motion through remote operation are supported.

(2) Obstacle avoidance