May 20, 2014
Interactive communication technology for the human symbiotic robot "EMIEW2" to enhance natural communication with humans
Hitachi, Ltd. today announced the development of interactive communication technology for the human symbiotic robot EMIEW2, which selects the optimal answer and explanation based on the subject and attributes included in a question, then based on body movement of the other party, such as nodding or tilting of the head to the side, estimates the level of comprehension to give an even more natural response. This technology enables even more flexible responses in relation to questions to realize smooth communication between humans and robots.
In the evolution of human symbiotic robots, free communication between humans and robots is the most important technology, and much research and development has been conducted in the area. Voice recognition, contents comprehension, response construction and voice synthesis technologies are required for technologies in free communication. In recent years, technology has been implemented such as in the mobile phone, where the subject is estimated from speech and a corresponding response is provided to the speaker. In robots, however, independent technology development was necessary as conversation is conducted at a distance with no hands-on operation by the speaker. This time, two technologies contributing to progress in robotics conversational function were developed and mounted in EMIEW2.
