Toshiba unveils humanoid robot that can speak in sign language

Toshiba has unveiled Aiko Chihira, a humanoid robot that can communicate using sign language, this week at the Cutting-Edge IT & Electronics Comprehensive Exhibition (CEATEC), Japan. It has been designed for a maximum of movement fluidity in its hands and arms, employing 43 actuators in its joints, in order to speak in Japanese sign language. At this point, its range is fairly limited: It can mimic simple movements, such as greetings, but the company has plans to develop the robot into a full communications robot by 2020. This will include speech synthesis, speech recognition, robotic control, and other sensors. The end goal is a robot that can serve as a “companion for the elderly and people with dementia, to offer telecounseling in natural speech, communicate through sign language and allow healthcare workers or family members to keep an eye on elderly people.”

Toshiba aims to put the android into practical use as a receptionist or as an exhibition attendant within next year.

Toshiba, in a statement

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