Organization: Toyohashi University of Technology
Authors: Yasutaka Takeda, Hironori Uto, Taisuke Miyake, Yuta Yoshiike, P. Ravindra S. De Silva, Michio Okada
Abstract: We have developed a multi-functional and self-reconfigurable novel cybernetic Core Less Unformed Machine (COLUMN). The COLUMN is a spherical-shaped (like a soccer ball) interactive artifact consisting of eight modules which are connected to twelve servomotors. Three users can control the above servomotors by swinging the ZigBee wireless modules (Column Gear) simultaneously. Each of the users can control four servomotors and each must collaborate with the appropriate swing to obtain the COLUMNs rolling motions. Our experimental results showed that the Column Gear as an interactive interface is able to convey a users expectation for a COLUMN by obtaining rolling motion through re-configuring its modules.