Toyota robots learn to do chores by copying the actions of humans

Researchers at Toyota are teaching robots to handle various household tasks, such as sweeping the floor, on their own.

Here's What We Know

To do this, they use an imitation-based learning system. A human shows the robot how to perform a particular action, and then the robot practices the simulation and can repeat it in reality.

According to Russ Tedrake, Toyota's vice president of robotics research, the system is based on "diffusion policy" technology similar to that used in chatbots and image generators. It allows robots to simulate multiple courses of action and choose the most appropriate one in a fraction of a second.

In addition, Toyota scientists are working on integrating language models like ChatGPT into the training system. This should teach robots to perform tasks based on watching instructional YouTube videos.

According to Tedrake, language models will allow the machines to understand and interact with their environment more effectively.

Currently, robots from Toyota's labs are demonstrating proficiency in tasks such as peeling vegetables, using kitchen appliances, and preparing food. However, so far they still often make mistakes. The company hopes that in the future such robots will be able to help people in everyday life.

Source: Wired