Meet the world's 'most advanced' humanoid robot
Engineered Arts: The Evolution of Humanoid Robotics
Introduction to Ameca
- Engineered Arts has been developing robots for two decades, with significant advancements since their last visit in 2018. Their latest model, Ameca, is touted as the world's most advanced humanoid robot designed for human interaction in entertainment and research.
Technology Behind Ameca
- Ameca integrates artificial intelligence (A.I.) with an artificial body (A.B.), enabling human-like movements and gestures. It also features facial recognition software.
- Equipped with cameras in its eyes and beamforming microphones that mimic human ears, Ameca uses various sensors to detect position and force within its limbs.
- To avoid the "Uncanny Valley" effect, the design intentionally showcases mechanical elements, such as a plain-colored face that houses 27 motors for facial expressions.
Interaction Capabilities
- Ameca utilizes large language models like GPT-4.0 for comprehension and interaction; however, reliance on commercial A.I. models limits control over data sets.
- Some clients prefer self-hosted models to maintain full control over their data and fine-tuning processes.
Mobility Challenges
- Currently weighing 35 kilograms (77 pounds) and standing at 187 centimeters (6 feet 1 inch), Ameca is not yet mobile. Future mobility would require enhanced power sources and hardware capable of simulating human movement accurately.
- Achieving human-equivalent grasping capabilities remains a challenge due to limitations in current electric motor technology.
Manufacturing Insights
- Engineered Arts has produced around 50 desktop versions and 30 full-sized Amecas shipped globally across 27 countries, with costs reaching approximately £200 thousand for a standing version.
Facility Tour Highlights
- The manufacturing facility includes custom design pieces created on-site, allowing rapid prototyping from design to production.
- Key areas include the mold shop for creating realistic features like faces and hands through silicone molding, followed by assembly where all components are integrated into the final robot.
Human-Robot Interaction Perspective
- In a light-hearted exchange about humans, Ameca describes them as fascinating beings filled with creativity and contradictions while emphasizing its purpose of fostering harmony rather than conflict.
Demonstrating Personality
- Showcasing its personality, Ameca tells jokes ("How do trees get on the internet? They log on.") and offers local food recommendations while demonstrating dance moves—highlighting its capabilities beyond mere functionality.
Vision of Engineered Arts
- s Will Jackson emphasizes that if visitors don't leave feeling amazed by what they’ve seen with Ameca, then they have failed in their mission to inspire wonder through robotics.