Panasonic Demonstrates "Companion" Robot at CES 2017

Panasonic Corporation of North America announced it has developed a “companion” robot with human-like movements and communication skills. The robot, developed as a proof of concept, debuts at the Panasonic booth (#12908) at CES 2017 in Las Vegas.

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“This test project builds on Panasonic’s innovations in robotics including battery and power solutions, vision and sensing, navigation solutions and motion control in a new appealing design. This is Panasonic’s latest effort in demonstrating network services in a friendly package, and we are showing this robot at CES as a way of obtaining feedback on its features and functions,” said Takahiro Iijima, Director, Panasonic Design Strategy Office in North America Director.

The robot is equipped with a Wi-Fi network function that accesses artificial intelligence-based natural language processing technology. This enables it to communicate in a clear, friendly way. The robot is able to access and use cloud data, and communicate with those in other locations. Thanks to its embedded projector, the robot can be used for distance learning and other purposes. The robot is about the size of a standard kitchen countertop blender.

Panasonic has submitted patent or design registration applications in the U.S. and other parts of the world.

Specifications (Based on test model; subject to change)
Product name		Desktop Companion Robot
Dimensions		Diameter: Up to 290 mm (9.5 inches) Height: Up to 485 mm (1.5 feet)
Weight		3.7 kg (8.1 lbs)
Movement speed		Max. 3.5 km/h (2.1 mph)
Battery		Lithium ion battery Capacity: 11.1 V 6600 mAh Operable hours: Approx. 6 hours
Sensors		8 M pixel CMOS camera × 1, infrared sensors × 5
Motors		Wheels: Pulse width modulation controlled DC motor × 4 Neck: Feedback controlled servo motor × 3
Projector		WVGA+ (854 × 480 dots), 50 lumens
Language		English
Processor & OS		1.2 GHz 64/32-bit quad-core ARM Cortex-A53, UNIX OS
Wireless connectivity		Wi-Fi: IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n (2.4GHz/5GHz) Bluetooth: Version 5

The robot has a cover that looks like an egg shell, which the robot can open to reveal a built-in projector. The robot also moves back and forward, and up and down. Its features and dexterity—designed to mimic human movements--inspires people to interact with it and are made possible with Panasonic-developed servo control technology. The robot’s child-like voice adds to the realism. Its voice and embedded projector work together to deliver natural communication that builds a sense of attachment with its human owner.

About Panasonic Corporation of North America

Newark, NJ-based Panasonic Corporation of North America is a leading technology partner and integrator to businesses, government agencies and consumers across the region. The company is the principal North American subsidiary of Osaka, Japan-based Panasonic Corporation and the hub of Panasonic’s U.S. branding, marketing, sales, service and R&D operations. Panasonic was featured in Fortune Magazine’s 2016 ranking of 50 companies that are changing the world and doing well by doing good. Specifically cited were its smart and sustainable technologies, including its contributions to smart cities and the electric vehicle revolution. Learn more about Panasonic at us.panasonic.com/news.

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Contact information

Press contact
Global Communication Department
Panasonic Corporation
TEL: +81-3-3574-5729
FAX: +81-3-3574-5691