ASIMO makes a strong impression when seen in person. The machine has an unreal quality to it. It isn't everyday that you see futuristic technology like this.
Unfortunately, the model shown was the first generation which moves somewhat slowly. It is not capable of running, only statically stable zero-moment point walking. Honda has since improved ASIMO to run at approximately 4 mph (adjusted for scale, that's quite impressive) with the ability to make dynamic turns while in motion.
It was a great show, mostly marketing but still very interesting. Seeing the first generation machine, my thought was that an amateur team will duplicate it's capabilities in about five years with an X-prize level effort.
ASIMO's support trailer
|
|
|
|
|
|
A door in the side of the trailer opened once. I was very curious about what was inside but didn't want to be rude. I kept my distance (if it were my robot and trailer, someone snooping around would make me nervous) and never saw what was inside. I imagined a small army of robots inside the trailer, ready to be warmed up and deployed.
The show
|
|
|
|
|
|
Movies of the show
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
