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Introduction to “AIBO” ERS-110
“AIBO” ERS-110 is Sony’s first robot designed for home
entertainment. Utilizing advanced technology, this
“entertainment robot” expands on the features of robots which
have existed only in the realm of science fiction or in special
laboratories.
There have been other robots for entertainment, such as battling
robots operated by remote control, stuffed animal robots that
giggle when tickled, and robots controlled by computer.
However, the greatest difference between those robots and AIBO
is that AIBO is an “autonomous” robot.
What is an autonomous robot?
AIBO was created to encourage human and robot coexistence.
It can move around on its own, as it is equipped with all the
necessary hardware such as the brain, sensors, and power switch.
In addition, its software enables AIBO to have emotions,
instincts, learning ability and capacity to mature. Therefore, it
requires no external control or human instruction for movement.
AIBO is a robot, but a one which lives at home and
communicates with people, expressing emotions, learning and
growing up, and acting under its own judgement—this is an
“autonomous robot.”
Each AIBO turns out differently, as its behavioral patterns
continuously change. This is because AIBO acts based upon its
feelings and instincts, then learns from the result of experience,
all the while maturing into a full-fledged robot.
When in a bad mood, AIBO will not listen to what people order,
whereas in a good mood, it may entertain you with its favorite
performance.
The key to get along with AIBO is to understand its autonomous
nature, and help it learn and grow.