Video

A colorful playground provides learning opportunities for a simulated curious robot. This arena includes a seesaw, a merry-go-round, and ... all » several other toys. The small blue robot, which is fully autonomous, is motivated by a curiosity drive. As it explores, it grows bored and seeks novelty. It's curiosity level is indicated by the green sphere above it, which grows and shrinks as it moves about. The large blue robot is driven by a human. This provides one method of interaction with the curious robot. Also, the user can grasp objects in the environment with a spring cursor. In this way the user can push the curious robot into new, interesting situations. Both robots are physically realistic, with front wheel drive, front wheel steering, and geared motors. The autonomous robot uses 3 laser rangefinders and an accelerometer.  «