Toshiba launches gesture-like communication robot

At the CEATEC exhibition in Japan, Toshiba introduced the technology to a robot named Aiko Chihira with the ability to communicate in sign language.

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Toshiba says that in the future, Chihira will not only replace the work of a receptionist but also take care of health care tasks. The Toshiba machine looks as real as the silky smooth skin created by aLab Inc., Osaka University, Sibaura Institute of Technology and Shonan Institute of Technology.

Toshiba introduces humanoid robot capable of gesture communication

Hitoshi Tokuda, head of marketing at Toshiba, said Chihira's hardware was provided by aLab Inc. and Osaka University. Meanwhile, Toshiba has developed algorithms that help control her arm and her hands. This Toshiba technology is inherited from the experience of manufacturing their industrial robots.

However, Toshiba's main focus is on healthcare and welfare. Tokuda said they expect businesses to be interested in hiring Chihira for events or for customer care.

Toshiba is developing a third-party software development kit to program Chihira's multi-platform operations. Toshiba hopes to reach the 2020 Summer Games in Tokyo, Chihira will be able to develop as a tour guide for foreigners.