CEATEC 2014: Toshiba unveils Aiko Chihira, a talking, signing android robot

At Ceatec 2014, Japan’s biggest tech event, Toshiba has unveiled its contribution to the Japanese robot canon - an android that can talk and sign. Aiko Chihira is an example of what Toshiba hopes will be a new line in humanoid communication robots that can “man” receptions and also help with nursing people, a chronic problem as Japan’s population ages. Aiko Chihira has silicone skin and was jointed developed by aLab Inc., Osaka University, Shibaura Institute of Technology and Shonan Institute of Technology.

Aiko Chihira is equipped with 43 servomotors that move her arms and hands. While it is common to see androids and robots that can interact and converse, one that has also mastered sign language is unusual. Toshiba anticipates having enhanced Aiko Chihira’s technology so much by 2020 that it will be able to serve as an actual guide for foreign visitors to the Tokyo Olympic Games!

Read more at Japan Times