80 research outputs found
Deaf, Dumb, and Chatting Robots, Enabling Distributed Computation and Fault-Tolerance Among Stigmergic Robot
We investigate ways for the exchange of information (explicit communication)
among deaf and dumb mobile robots scattered in the plane. We introduce the use
of movement-signals (analogously to flight signals and bees waggle) as a mean
to transfer messages, enabling the use of distributed algorithms among the
robots. We propose one-to-one deterministic movement protocols that implement
explicit communication. We first present protocols for synchronous robots. We
begin with a very simple coding protocol for two robots. Based on on this
protocol, we provide one-to-one communication for any system of n \geq 2 robots
equipped with observable IDs that agree on a common direction (sense of
direction). We then propose two solutions enabling one-to-one communication
among anonymous robots. Since the robots are devoid of observable IDs, both
protocols build recognition mechanisms using the (weak) capabilities offered to
the robots. The first protocol assumes that the robots agree on a common
direction and a common handedness (chirality), while the second protocol
assumes chirality only. Next, we show how the movements of robots can provide
implicit acknowledgments in asynchronous systems. We use this result to design
asynchronous one-to-one communication with two robots only. Finally, we combine
this solution with the schemes developed in synchronous settings to fit the
general case of asynchronous one-to-one communication among any number of
robots. Our protocols enable the use of distributing algorithms based on
message exchanges among swarms of Stigmergic robots. Furthermore, they provides
robots equipped with means of communication to overcome faults of their
communication device
Some Experiments on the influence of Problem Hardness in Morphological Development based Learning of Neural Controllers
Natural beings undergo a morphological development process of their bodies
while they are learning and adapting to the environments they face from infancy
to adulthood. In fact, this is the period where the most important learning
pro-cesses, those that will support learning as adults, will take place.
However, in artificial systems, this interaction between morphological
development and learning, and its possible advantages, have seldom been
considered. In this line, this paper seeks to provide some insights into how
morphological development can be harnessed in order to facilitate learning in
em-bodied systems facing tasks or domains that are hard to learn. In
particular, here we will concentrate on whether morphological development can
really provide any advantage when learning complex tasks and whether its
relevance towards learning in-creases as tasks become harder. To this end, we
present the results of some initial experiments on the application of
morpho-logical development to learning to walk in three cases, that of a
quadruped, a hexapod and that of an octopod. These results seem to confirm that
as task learning difficulty increases the application of morphological
development to learning becomes more advantageous.Comment: 10 pages, 4 figure
Abstract concept learning in cognitive robots
Purpose of Review
Understanding and manipulating abstract concepts is a fundamental characteristic of human intelligence that is currently missing in artificial agents. Without it, the ability of these robots to interact socially with humans while performing their tasks would be hindered. However, what is needed to empower our robots with such a capability? In this article, we discuss some recent attempts on cognitive robot modeling of these concepts underpinned by some neurophysiological principles.
Recent Findings
For advanced learning of abstract concepts, an artificial agent needs a (robotic) body, because abstract and concrete concepts are considered a continuum, and abstract concepts can be learned by linking them to concrete embodied perceptions. Pioneering studies provided valuable information about the simulation of artificial learning and demonstrated the value of the cognitive robotics approach to study aspects of abstract cognition.
Summary
There are a few successful examples of cognitive models of abstract knowledge based on connectionist and probabilistic modeling techniques. However, the modeling of abstract concept learning in robots is currently limited at narrow tasks. To make further progress, we argue that closer collaboration among multiple disciplines is required to share expertise and co-design future studies. Particularly important is to create and share benchmark datasets of human learning behavior
A brief review of robotics technologies to support social interventions for older users
In the last few decades, various studies demonstrated numerous robotics applications that can tackle the problem of the ageing population by supporting older people to live longer and independently at home. This article reviews the scientific literature and highlights how social robots can help the daily life of older people and be useful also as assessment tools for mild physical
and mental conditions. It will underline the aspects of usability and acceptability of robotic solutions for older persons. Indeed, the design should maximise
these to improve the users' attitude towards the actual use of the robots. The article discusses the advantages and concerns about the use of robotics technology
in the social context with a vulnerable population. In this field, success is to assist social workers, not to replace them. We conclude recommending that care
benefits should be balanced against ethical costs
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