A Table Tennis Robot Challenges Olympian Miwa Harimoto
a table tennis robot developed by Omron Corp. The ninth-generation Forpheus robot, the star of the Semicon Japan exhibition, put Harimoto's skills to the test.
Harimoto, who won a silver medal in the women's team competition at the Paris Olympics, found herself facing a robot equipped with advanced technology. Forpheus utilizes three cameras and sensors to track the ball and opponent's movements, calculating and predicting the ball's trajectory to make accurate returns.
While not designed to compete with top players, Forpheus serves as a valuable training tool. This latest version incorporates generative artificial intelligence, allowing it to engage in conversation with its opponent during practice.
Harimoto, initially nervous about facing the seemingly powerful robot, found herself surprised by its capabilities. The robot's ability to return shots with precision and stability impressed her, pushing her to work harder and return every shot.
Omron, known for its health-related products, also boasts a strong presence in industrial machinery. The development of the table tennis robot began in 2012, with the first Forpheus debuting in China. Young engineers continuously improve the technology, releasing new versions every few years.
Despite internal discussions questioning the project's direction, table tennis remains the chosen path due to its accessibility and potential for human interaction. The latest version's ability to return underspin shots further demonstrates the robot's evolving capabilities. Harimoto's own advice, suggesting the use of greater spin, offers valuable insights for future development.
The Forpheus robot stands as a testament to Omron's technological prowess, showcasing its ability to combine advanced AI and robotics in a unique and engaging way. As the robot continues to evolve, it promises to become an even more valuable training tool for table tennis players of all levels.