Turning Trash into Technology: A Humanoid Robot with a Heartbeat
In a remarkable display of ingenuity, a group of students has transformed discarded materials into a groundbreaking creation: a humanoid robot equipped with a simulated heartbeat. This extraordinary feat showcases the power of resourcefulness and the boundless potential of young minds.
The Team Behind the Innovation
A team of five students and professors at the Krishna Institute of Engineering and Technology (KIET) in Uttar Pradesh, India, developed the robot. They assert that it is priced at approximately $2,400, making it much more affordable compared to other available models.
Anushka’s Role and Future Potential
Currently, Anushka’s primary function is to greet visitors and respond to their questions by providing useful information. However, the research team plans to enhance her abilities, with future applications in healthcare and consulting services.
Advanced Capabilities: Facial Recognition, Multilingual Communication, and More
Anushka is equipped with facial recognition and computer vision, enabling her to intelligently listen, understand, communicate, and coordinate her movements. She can speak 61 languages and uses 50 hand gestures to interact with users. With computer vision, this wheeled robot can recognize faces and objects, follow people, and perform various tasks. Additionally, she can express emotions through more than 30 eye gestures.
Anushka is also programmed to alert her handlers in case of issues such as low battery or malfunctions, either by making a phone call or sending a text message.
Sustainable Innovation: Repurposing Waste for a Greener Future
By repurposing items that would otherwise end up in landfills, these students have not only constructed a functional robot but also made a significant stride toward sustainable innovation. Their project serves as an inspiring example of how to tackle environmental challenges while pushing the boundaries of technological advancement.
