Anushka, a groundbreaking humanoid robot from the Krishna Institute of Engineering and Technology (KIET) in Ghaziabad, India, embodies the spirit of frugal innovation. Built from repurposed parts and with a development budget of just Rs 2 lakh, Anushka represents a significant leap in cost-effective robotics.
Design and Cost Efficiency
Named “Artificially Networked Unit for Smart Human Knowledge Assistance,” Anushka was revealed in March 2024. Designed primarily to assist with visitor interactions, Anushka’s creators envision broader applications in healthcare and consultancy. Despite the limited budget, the robot features 3D-printed facial components and silicone skin, with a design inspired by a French princess and enhanced through generative AI.
Technical Features
Anushka integrates a master-slave system where an i7 processor directs microcontrollers and servo motors to manage her movements. She utilizes natural language processing (NLP) to understand and respond to queries in over 20 Indian languages. Her high-resolution, 30-megapixel camera allows for facial recognition from up to 10 meters away.
Artificial Intelligence and Interaction
The robot’s AI operates on multiple levels: auditory processing, visual recognition, language interpretation, and motor control. Although Anushka is not self-aware, she performs tasks with impressive clarity, despite her lifelike movements potentially evoking the “uncanny valley” effect—a term used to describe the discomfort people feel when robots closely mimic human appearance.
Ethical Implications and Future Plans
The creation of humanoids like Anushka prompts ethical discussions about human-robot interactions, particularly concerning the uncanny valley phenomenon. KIET’s team is focused on improving Anushka’s mobility and exploring the development of bipedal robots, continuing their journey of frugal yet innovative robotics.
