May I Have This R2D2?

Ballroom dancing is no longer just for the romantic. Japanese researchers have developed a robot capable of taking to the floor by predicting how its human partner will move.

The Partner Ballroom Dance Robot -- or PBDR in robot talk -- has a woman's face, a sensor around its waist and can move in all directions on its three wheels hidden underneath an evening gown.

As its partner takes steps, the robot analyzes his movements and figures out how to accompany him with its shoulders, elbows, waist and neck.

But for those who would be caught up in the moment, PBDR has clear robotic traits. It comes in two colors -- shiny blue and bright red -- pointy ears like Mickey Mouse and, despite its classic attire, a plastic exterior.

More prospects loom at the end of the article.

Via Cronaca