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Doing The Robot

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By WEEK Producer

Story Published: Oct 19, 2009 at 10:43 PM CDT

Story Updated: Oct 19, 2009 at 10:46 PM CDT

At Illinois State University Monday, NAO the humanoid robot was strutting his stuff.

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"Strutting" is perhaps a little too strong a word for what NAO does.
But, the little French–built robot was showing off to ISU students.
NAO's brain can be programmed to respond to verbal cues.
Late last year, NAO's French developers released this version for sale to universities who want to study..and teach...robotics.

"When it comes to the mechanics of it; ten years ago a robot which could go up and down stairs was unheard of. Then Honda came through with a hugely expensive robot. Now, a decade of so later, you've got one for the price of a cheap car," said Dr. David Anderson of Illinois State University.

NAO did have a couple of bobbles today. He does a lot better on a hard floor than on a rug, and suffered a slight wardrobe malfunction during a dance.
However, he's more than capable of doing a passable version of robotic Tai Chi.

Next article Alternative Plan for Peoria Hotel

View Oldest Comments First

Tuesday, Oct 20 at 2:44 PM wtf JON wrote ...

you think its just democrats bailing out their kids. give me a friggin break! All these politicians are crooked and not to be trusted. Our gov't as a whole ( ALL PARTIES ) is out of control!!!!!!!!!

Tuesday, Oct 20 at 5:13 AM Jon wrote ...

Why are the French so far ahead of us with this kind of technology ? I guess the democrats are to busy bailing out all there rich friends .....

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