Apple’s New ELEGNT Framework Enables Non-Humanoid Robots To Interact With Humans

Apple researchers have created the latest artificial intelligence (AI) framework, dubbed ELEGNT. It lets non-humanoid robots show their intentions and engage with humans in a more interactive way.

Apple explained in a blog post that its AI framework is aimed at non-anthropomorphic robots, or robots that don’t look like humans (they don’t have limbs or a head like humans). 

While humanoid robots are easier for people to interact with because they resemble us, working with non-humanoid robots can sometimes feel awkward or difficult. 

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To solve this problem, the ELEGNT framework teaches robots to show their intentions and emotions through movements, postures, and gestures. These movements do not disturb or affect the robot’s ability to complete tasks; in fact, they make human interaction more engaging. 

This AI framework covers both hardware design and software training. The researchers have also made storyboards that show how robots should behave in different situations, including tasks and social interactions. According to the researchers, “Expression-driven movements significantly enhance user engagement and perceived robot qualities.” 

Researchers showcased how non-humanoid robots can be expressive through a lamp-like robot in a demo video. The lamp resembles Pixar’s Luxo Jr. character. It follows the hand gestures to shine a light on specific spots. The design of the movements gave the impression that the robot understood the command, nodded in agreement, and completed the task quickly.

The researchers tested the robot’s movements and expression capabilities with 21 people. The test has both functional and social activities, such as playing music or having simple interactions. One participant mentioned that without the playful movements, interacting with the lamp robot would feel “annoying instead of welcoming and engaging.”