. Robots are not able to work alongside humans because they lack the ability to avoid hazards and recognize them. But this will change as a group of researchers from Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane introduces ‘Baxter, an assistant roboticist. Baxter is QUT’s newest robot. He helps scientists to break down technological barriers that keep them safe alongside people. They believe that the secret to their success is being able to perceive and see the world as well as humans. Baxter, the robot that plays Four Connect. The robot is learning to view the world in the same way as humans. Image: QUT. Professor Peter Corke is a world-famous roboticist from QUT and the Director of the Australian Centre for Robotic Vision. He said that robots should be able to see the world as we do. Baxter has been rushed by us before, and we can attest to his fast reflexes. Video of Baxter, the robot. ACRV scientists already program Baxter with cyber-vision so that he can play Connect Four, a game in which the player must line up four pegs of identical colour vertically, horizontally or diagonally. Baxter can now recognize and grab ripe capsicums. ACRV scientists are developing robots capable of recognizing and picking up real-world environment. The researchers are currently studying robotic vision in order to develop sophisticated farm tools and low-cost solutions to certain medical and health issues. They also plan on combating the Crown of Thorn starfish infestations at the Great Barrier Reef. Dr Sue Keay is Chief Operating Officer at ACRV. She stated that robotic vision will be the key technology to enable robots to disrupt markets, transform labor-intensive industries and become an everyday part of modern life. Dr Sue Keay, ACRV Chief Operating Officer, said that “seeing” is more than processing images. “Robotic vision is the key enabling technology that will allow robotics to transform labour-intensive industries, disrupt stagnant markets, and make robots an everyday part of our modern world. However, it has not made significant progress in areas like retail, where the world can be complex and unpredictable. Robots with the ability to respond, see and learn as well as human-like abilities will improve productivity in Australia’s most important industries. Robotic Vision – ACRV Video
Australian roboticists have created robots that can see the world like humans
