Demonstration experiments for Next-generation Robot Products and Services

An exhibition of robotic technologies in the Minami underground shopping, teeming with shoppers

The Robot Laboratory conducted demonstration experiments for next-generation robot products and services using as its field the Osaka Chuo Ward underground shopping area Crysta Nagahori, for six days from February 16 to 21.

The area chosen for the exhibition, Taki-no-hiroba in Crysta Nagahori, is the underground street of Osaka's busiest thoroughfare, Shinsaibashi. It is near the subway Shinsaibashi exit and is passed by countless shoppers and businesspeople everyday. In comparison with our previous demonstration experiments, this was the first time for the Robot Laboratory to exhibit in such a place with so many visitors who have little familiarity with robot products. The exhibition area was thronged with people during its running time.

 The companies that made demonstration experiments and what these involved are explained below. Comments from the company representatives are also given.

New Potential from Cardboard Robots
•Eager Co., Ltd.

 This company made a demonstration display of its cardboard-body D+ropop robot putting on clothes and acting within a limited time, verifying its appeal to end users.

 The motions the robot made had an even greater impact than its appearance, and any number of passersby stopped to gaze in wonder at it, expressing cries of amazement. Some people even took photos with their mobile phones, verifying the great appeal this has to end users.

Company Representative Comments
 "The robot had failed to put on clothes until we found these clothes that perfectly matched it, helping to bolster its appeal. We got a variety of responses from female high school students or business women, people we don't usually come into contact with, and we certainly hope to put that feedback into future developments."

System turning Mirrors and Display Windows into Advertising Media
•Decorative System Co., Ltd.

 This special film changes into a monitor just be attaching it to a light-permeable board of acrylic or glass. Two types were shown, a 35-inch film and a half-mirror, both being used in demonstration viewing.

 At first it looks like an ordinary monitor, but once they see the projector in the background and realize that it is a film monitor, people one after another begin to stare raptly in interest. Responses to the product were gained from a wide cross-section of ages.

Company Representative Comments
 "There were some older people who simply couldn't understand what was going on. The 32-inch type did look like a television monitor from a distance, so next time we're going to have to come up with another way of presenting it. Those who could understand the mechanism said it was exciting and something new. We'll certainly put our energy behind sales promotion to make this a standard item in shops."

Compact Humanoid Robot Palro
•Fujisoft Incorporated

 The compact humanoid robot Palro has communication, walking and Internet linkup features enabling it to naturally deliver information through conversation and is expected to have a variety of uses, such as for acting as a guide or as a technology teaching tool.

 Shoppers paused in fascination in front of the booth at the adorable appearance of Palro placed on a table. Several people could be seen actively engaging it in communication.
Company Representative Comments
 "At the demonstration experiment at Osaka City Hall in January there were a lot of older people, but this time around there were children and businessmen, even some foreigners. There were some people pretty knowledgeable about machines who asked questions about its development. Confirming that the voice recognition functioned even in a place with constant noise like this was a significant point."

Clothes Fitting Simulation System
•Furutanisangyou Co., Ltd.

 This company has developed a clothes fitting simulation system automatically displaying how a user standing in front of the screen would look coordinating different clothes. As it allows the user to try on various outfits without actually having to physically put the clothes on, orders are beginning to come from the apparel industry.

 Women in particular were more than happy to participate in the experiments. Viewers said that the way the image was created instantaneously was impressive, and a wide variety of opinions were gained.
Company Representative Comments
 "The majority of people expressed wonder and amazement at it. Female shop staff who were viewing the experiments gave us practical advice on installing it in shops. Some young girls had fun pulling funny faces and so on, as if they were in a photo booth, which made us start thinking of applications for using it like that."

Tool to Move Images in Response to Human Movement
•Media Fish Co., Ltd.

 This tool that catches the movement of people and changes its image in accordance with those movements is already on sale, so this demonstration aimed at sales promotion and generating recognition amongst the younger generation.

 The image doesn't change unless the person before it moves, which some people failed to realize, but almost all of those who did notice it kept moving before the screen in fascination with it. The viewers commented often on how intriguing it was as they enjoyed watching the changes.
Company Representative Comments
 "We gained a lot from this demonstration in terms of what sort of information is easier recognized. We also found that the visitors weren't as active as we thought they would be. I think we need to find some way to motivate them to move more."

 The Robot Laboratory will hold the Technology Innovations Fair 2010 at the Market Plaza on the third floor of Business Innovation Center Osaka on two days from March 3 - March 4. Twelve examples of robot technology solutions supporting greater visitor numbers and sales for commercial and public facilities will be on display, and we welcome all interested people to attend.