Ars Electronica Futurelab and Honda R&D were conducting collaborative research into the next generation-relationship between humans and robots. From industrial robots supporting the production process to humanoid robots, many researchers have explored the range of possibilities for robots.

Recently, these robot technologies were integrated mostly with information technology, and we see the robotization of physical space emerging. Therefore the applied research contained important questions, such as how will we integrate technologies like the “Humanoid Robot ASIMO” into our daily life, and how we can influence human acceptance and coexistence.

In 2010 Honda’s leading-edge humanoid robot ASIMO (Advanced Step in Innovative Mobility) made its public debut in Austria at that year’s Ars Electronica Festival. To enable ASIMO to walk, Honda engineers studied the complexly coordinated movements of human beings. ASIMO’s size and design were calculated to enable it to optimally interact in a human environment. A program developed especially for the Ars Electronica Center by Honda engineers and the Ars Electronica Futurelab staff provided ASIMO with plenty of opportunities to show off its wide array of robotic skill.