Future pet robots could respond to human emotions

Can a robot really “feel” without using algorithms? No matter what, emotions cannot be programmed into a circuit board – at least that’s what we think, although a very close imitation could very well come into play that might fool people into thinking that a robot is capable of feeling, and hence, “love”. Researchers in Taiwan are looking at neural networks as the next frontier in helping them break the cycle of repetitive behavior in robot toys, while playing the role of a deity by bestowing them with almost emotional responses to interactions. To obtain a successful end result, an appropriate control architecture, natural methods of human-robot interaction and embedded emotional responses and behavior within the robot’s computer are essential ingredients. We can only hope that in due time, future toys for kids will be far superior than the Pleo and Aibo.