Basketball Robot From Toyota Can Hit Three – Pointers Perfectly

Today, robots are becoming more and more advanced as they are now able to mimic human complex physical movements. Researchers at Toyota have developed a robot capable of scoring three-pointers all day called Cue 3. Currently, its ability to run, smash and dribble is still being developed, but it has successfully nailed 5 out of 8 attempts to throw shots worth 3 points.

Scientists have made Cue 3 out of something similar to the armadillo because they don't want it to have a shiny white metallic color that is often seen on other robots. The robot's face is not designed to look like a human face. However, its limbs are built almost identical to those on the human body, which allows it to perform the most precise pitching moves.

Cue 3 is 6 feet 10 inches (equivalent to 207 cm). It is capable of calculating 3-dimensional images to determine the location of the basket and compute the path of the ball. The sensors equipped on its upper body will help it regulate the engine at the knees and arms while offering the right thrust and angle.

Professor Oussama Khatib from Stanford University, who led this experiment, said that Cue 3 mimics complex movements by using sensors and the ability to calculate quickly in real time. He called this "visual feedback".

He continued:

For years, Japan has been focusing on developing humanoids. Honda Motor Co., Toyota's rival, has its own robot called Asimo. Besides running, it can recognize faces, shake hands, carry a tray, pour a drink, and avoid obstacles.

The question is when will these kinds of robots do slam dunk, a type of basketball shot involving running, dribbling, and jumping?

Responding to this, Toyota engineer Tomohiro Nomi who also participated in the development of Cue 3, said, "In 20 years, with technological advances."