- 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.
- 60 actuation points (excluding locomotion wheels)
-Facial skin: 22 actuation points driven by 15 motors
-Eyeballs: 3 degrees of freedom (independent left/right movement; synchronized up/down movement)
-Below the neck: 35 degrees of freedom - Electric motors
- Skin material: Silicone
- Head: 3D printed part finished with a coat of lacquer A three-dimensional structure that resembles hair is achieved using a parametric design based on triangles. The same pattern is applied to the sash.
* 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.
(1) Large number of actuation points
Excluding the locomotion wheels, 60 points across the body are capable of motion. The head, including the neck, has 28 actuation points, enabling expressive facial gestures like smiling.
(2) Extremely quiet motor operation
By minimizing mechanical noise during movement, Yui achieves a more humanlike, natural presence.
(3) Remote operation via the internet
With wide-angle cameras embedded in the eyes and microphones in the ears, operators can control Yui from remote locations as if present on site, seeing and hearing from Yui’s perspective.
(4) Auto mode that replicates human movement
In auto mode, expressions and gestures are generated based on recordings of actual human movement, enabling more natural behavior.
(5) Genderless design incorporating traditional craftsmanship
Kaga-Yuzen paste-resist-dyed silk is used for Yui’s garments, and Wajima-nuri lacquering is used for Yui’s head and sash. Yui’s outfit combines a somewhat feminine kimono with traditionally male hakama pants, resulting in a genderless appearance.