The Japan Science and Technology Agency announced the creation of a cybernetic avatar of the Minister of Affairs
Cybernetic avatar is a concept thatincludes not only remote avatars using robots and 3D images as proxies, but also enhancements to the physical/cognitive abilities of humans using ICT and robotics.
Avatars of Minister Taro Kano (left) and Professor Hiroshi Ishiguro, the author of the project (right). Image: ATR & JST Moonshot R&D Avatar Symbiotic Society Project
In the new project, the researchers createda robotic copy of the Tarot Kano, which the minister can control remotely. Researchers use a physical avatar in various tests. Among other things, they want to evaluate whether people feel that the minister is speaking to them when interacting with the avatar and whether the attitude changes when interacting with the robot.
Use of cybernetic avatars in the futureallow their operators to take part in community activities without being physically in a particular location. This technology can help people with disabilities and free an aging society from the natural limitations of the body, brain, space and time.
Artistic illustration of the cyber-physical environment of the future. Image: Japan Science and Technology Agency
Scientists believe that testing the first prototypes of such devices will help develop norms for the cyber-physical society of the future and determine the rules for responsible and ethical behavior of avatars.
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On the cover: the minister with his avatar. Image: Mainichi/Atsuo Yamaguchi