Unicycle-riding robot at Tokyo expo

Tue Oct 6 2009 13:53:31

An annual exhibition in Japan has been showing off gadgets and gizmos of the future.

High-tech electronic inventions have been demonstrated to visitors including a "Gesture Remote Control" which allows users to change channels, raise volume, or adapt the colour of their television, with the twist of a wrist.

"The sensor detects hand movements of one centimetre, so you can contol the TV as if you're touching it," said Takashi Matsubara, a researcher for Hitachi.

Murata Manufacturing's unicycle-riding robot "Seiko" pulled in the crowds. It is capable of detecting obstacles and getting around curves while staying upright.

Yamaha Corporation's humanoid robot "Miim" sings in tune, while blinking and moving her head and mouthing to pre-recorded music.

The five day event near Tokyo is expected to attract 200,000 visitors.

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