Motorcycle manufacturer Yamaha has this week unveiled a new motorcycle riding robot at the Tokyo Motor Show 2015, that maybe one day will be capable of racing against human motorcycle riders.
At the current time, the Yamaha robot motorcycle rider, known as MotoBot, is currently in its prototype stage of development and still requires stabilizing wheels to help learn the motions of riding a bike. This innovative project aims to push the boundaries of both robotics and motorcycle technology, merging them into a single, groundbreaking entity.
The Vision Behind MotoBot
Yamaha’s vision for MotoBot extends far beyond just creating a robot that can ride a motorcycle. The ultimate goal is to develop a robot that can ride an unmodified motorcycle on a racetrack at speeds exceeding 200 km/h. This ambitious target requires the integration of numerous advanced control systems to manage the complex motions and dynamics of motorcycle riding at high speeds.
Check out the promotional video for the MotoBot below, Yamaha explains more:
This is an autonomous motorcycle-riding humanoid robot built around a fusion of Yamaha’s motorcycle and robotics technology. R&D is currently underway with the goal of developing the robot to ride an unmodified motorcycle on a racetrack at more than 200 km/h.
The task of controlling the complex motions of a motorcycle at high speeds requires a variety of control systems that must function with a high degree of accuracy. We want to apply the fundamental technology and know-how gained in the process of this challenge to the creation of advanced rider safety and rider-support systems and put them to use in our current businesses, as well as using them to pioneer new lines of business.
Potential Applications and Future Developments
The development of MotoBot is not just about creating a robotic rider; it has far-reaching implications for the future of motorcycle safety and rider assistance technologies. By understanding and mastering the intricacies of motorcycle dynamics through MotoBot, Yamaha aims to develop advanced rider safety systems that can be integrated into their current and future motorcycle models. These systems could include enhanced stability control, advanced braking systems, and even automated emergency response features.
Moreover, the technology and insights gained from the MotoBot project could pave the way for new business opportunities. For instance, autonomous delivery services using motorcycles, advanced training simulators for riders, and even entertainment applications such as robotic racing leagues could become viable markets.
The MotoBot project also opens up discussions about the future of human-robot interaction in sports and other high-performance activities. If a robot can be developed to ride a motorcycle at high speeds, it raises questions about the potential for robots in other sports and activities that require a high degree of skill and precision.
In conclusion, Yamaha’s MotoBot is a fascinating glimpse into the future of robotics and motorcycle technology. While it is still in the early stages of development, the potential applications and implications of this project are vast and exciting. As Yamaha continues to refine and develop MotoBot, we can look forward to a future where advanced robotics play a significant role in enhancing safety, performance, and innovation in the world of motorcycling.
Source: Gizmag : Gizmodo : Yamaha
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