This article was published on August 1, 2016

This nightmare-inducing robot moves on its own via a neural network


If you’re still skeptical as to whether the robot takeover will end humanity as we know it, then you may need to meet Alter.

Alter is a new humanoid straight from Japan that runs entirely off a neural network, with 42 pneumatic actuators that help it generate its own movement patterns. And boy, are they freaky.

Maybe it’s the oversized hands, the soulless eyes, the flappy arms, or a mouth that looks like it’s constantly trying to hold water in – but all of it needs to get thrown into a pit of flames.

According to Engadget, Alter’s physical movement and posture are dictated by environmental factors like noise, temperature, humidity, and proximity to people. For example, if it’s cold in the room, the robot may shake and shiver to denote feeling cold. Alter can also “sing,” but the music that it produces is more like an ambient melody than verbal songs.

オルタちゃん

A video posted by miki kusano (@mikikusano) on

Personally, I think it looks more like a robot that was possessed by the soul of a Magikarp.

If you’re in Japan, you can induce your own nightmares in person by viewing Alter at the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation in Tokyo. The robot will be on display until the end of this week.

[Engadget via Gizmodo]

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