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| | Arduous times have begun for inventor Mr. David Hanson from Texas. He has to take of two children having same name Zeno simultaneously. It might seem that the task of Hanson is quite simple – many fathers rear two or even three children at a time. But the situation in the case of David Hanson is somewhat different: If the “First” Zeno is his one and half year old son, who perfectly conducts in accordance with the age, then the “Zeno No.2” has come into the world recently – It’s a Robot, which is being created by the company, headed by Hanson.
"Cybernetic Zeno ", development of which was started in “Hanson Robotics” Company five years back still cannot walk and talk. However, it shuts and opens its eyes and watches the moving objects or persons. Face of the robot is capable of expressing series of incidental "хомо сапиенс" emotions. Height of the "Zeno" is just 43 см and it weighs approximately 3 kg. The robot “Zeno” is result of five years hard work of Hanson and small group of engineers, designers and programmers. Creators of “Zeno” reckon that market would significantly develop in future with robots “Social robots” as they are called, which are identical to human beings.
According to David Hanson, “Zeno” can completely become “interactive learning companion" – electronic “friend”, who can converse with its operator. The face, made from plastic material (As Hanson puts it “Frubber”), which is externally very similar to human skin, helps the robot to express the feelings in respect to the past or present. "Our robot sees you and can identify your face – says David. It remembers your name and can build personal relations with you ".
At present, the company manufactures “Doll-robots”, which look like famous scientist Albert Einstein, pirate or rock musician. Price of each such “job” requires tens of thousands of dollars. If required, the “external appearance” can be changed so that the toy resembles the owner or owner’s acquaintance.
Creator of “Zeno” Mr. David Hanson reckons that his masterpiece would be extensively sold within the next 2-3 years. Approximate retail price of the “Robot Child” would range from 200 to 300 dollars.
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