Toyota Partner Robots (seven instrument-playing robots and one DJ robot) performed in a show at Aichi Expo in 2005.

The instrument-playing robots were developed from the point of view of being able to “use tools.” In the show they gave an entertaining performance with the trumpet, tuba, trombone, horn and drum with their “artificial lips” reproducing the human lip, delicate finger and quick arm motions required.

The DJ robot is being developed aiming at communication between robots and humans. It played the role of a DJ chatting with the host of the show.

The design concept of the robots included the “harmonious mind” and “hospitable mind” underlying Japanese culture. They even look friendly and tender with the “atmospheric facial expression” and “fine fabrication” which is so reminiscent of Japanese “Noh masks.” Their lightweight slim bodies were realized through the latest advanced technology.

[Toyota Partner Robot]
Introduction of stage performance at Aichi Expo 2005
(Click the image to see the movie.)

The mountable walking robot “i-foot” is being developed aiming at realizing three-dimensional mobility with the capability of climbing up and down stairs. Users can ride and drive them using joysticks.

The dream of future three-dimensional mobility and the safety and reliability which support its realization is expressed in the shell-shaped design of a “SHELL ON LEGS” which wraps around passengers.

As an i-foot function bird-like legs that can bend backwards were adopted in consideration of ease in getting on and off. It was also designed so that passengers can control walking direction and speed using a joystick in order to realize the joy of driving which not usually present in conventional mobility tools.