Open source robot that can be remotely controlled with virtual reality

Reachy is an open source robot announced by French startup Pollen Robotics during the 2020 CES. It is a robot with only the upper body, and it has been upgraded during CES 2021 and is attracting attention.

Until now, programming was required for operation settings, but the updated version can be controlled by humans by responding to remote operation through virtual reality. Through a virtual reality headset, you can share a robot-like perspective and operate a robotic arm with a controller. Rich’s arm supports 7DoF like a human, so it can hold things like objects.

It is said that this method can be used not only as a simple remote operation, but also as a means of learning movements instead of programs. In terms of hardware, it has a processor upgrade and dual cameras with optical zoom, but the price is said to remain at $17 million.

Since this robot has only an upper body, it cannot move around freely, but it can be expected to be used for contactless reception or product provision. Related information can be found here .