Remember the cute looking PLEN robot? Well, researchers over at Wagatsuma Lab (which is part of Kyutech) have decided to play the role of robotic deity by breathing new life into PLEN, a particular miniature robot that has more or less been relegated to the scrap heap because its manufacturer, Systec Akazawa, is already out of business officially. This diminutive robot is no taller than 23cm, making it the less than ideal research robot. However, the approximate price point of around $2,600 makes it a whole lot cheaper compared to other robots in the market, and by having it work in tandem with an Arduino chipset as well as a camera, researchers are hoping to be able to delve deeper into the world of brain-inspired systems such as neural networks and emergent behavior between multiple robots. Previous experiments with the PLEN robot saw it work alongside an Android-powered phone. You can check out the PLEN robot that has been augmented with Arduino behaving in a video after the jump.A particular experiment saw this enhanced PLEN robot look for and approach a target object – a stationary blue ball. Another experiment saw the ball being flung towards the PLEN robot, where it makes an attempt to catch it with a tiny net. Not only that, multiple PLENs can also work together in a cooperative block-building exercise through the use of Jenga game pieces. Does this mean the real world Skynet will be up and operational soon? Hardly, but at least it gives the PLEN a new lease of life if you are interested in such experiments.
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