Can robot play violin? by Ivana Bruderova

He is 5-foot tall, all in white and can play the violin as a virtuoso. He's a robot. In Thursday Toyota presented it's latest invention. After his ancestor, which was able to play trumpet, Toyota create robot playing "Pomp and Circumstance" which charm everyone. It perfectly coordinate movements of arms and fingers to play precise. Katsuaki Wanasabe, Toyota president says, robotics is a great priority for company in the coming years. "We want to create robots that are useful for people in everyday life," he told. He thinks it's natural for automaker's to deal with robots because it's firmly connected with developing systems for autos, for instance pre-crash systems. Toyota Corp. have already proved that they are able to make robots which can help in everyday life to immovable patients, to make a guide and carry on simple conversation. In compared with competitive companies such as Honda Motor Co., Fujitsu Ltd. and other Toyota is a latecomer in robots. Honda is working on their own robot since 1986. In 2000, Asimo, considered to be one of the most sophisticated humanoids, became available for rental. Asimo is 51-inch tall, after many changes and improves it become smaller and it's move much more stabile. Toyota work hard to overtake it's rivals. It's cooperating with universities and group companies to go ahead faster. Also in Thursday Toyota showed robot called Robina. It doesn't have legs and move on wheels and is working in Toyota showroom as a guide. Interact to persons, carry on a simple dialogue and can sign its name with holding fat pen in its three fingers. "I'm a 120 cm tall and how much I weigh is a secret." said robot in a feminine voice. Besides the robots Toyota Corp. is doing research for instance in biofuels.

by Ivana Bruderova for PocketNews (http://pocketnews.tv)

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