Toyota has introduced CUE7, the newest iteration of its basketball-playing robot, to showcase advances in robotics technology.
The system combines vision, motion planning, and control to recognize targets, measure distance, and perform accurate shots. It builds on CUE 6, which began as an internal side project and set a Guinness World Record in 2024 for the longest basketball shot.
CUE7 Enhances Embodied AI with Improved Sensing and Hybrid Control
CUE7 improves on this foundation with upgraded sensing, planning, and a lighter design, reflecting Toyota’s broader push into embodied AI beyond automotive development. The robot also features a hybrid control approach that integrates reinforcement learning with AI-based systems.
In demonstrations, CUE7 performs a structured routine: it stays still, tracks the hoop, measures distance with sensors, adjusts its posture and arm, then releases the ball in a smooth, repeatable shot.
The shot typically follows a high, clean arc and often lands with little contact on the rim. After each attempt, the robot resets and repeats the process with consistent accuracy.
Basketball Robots as Testbeds for Precision Perception and Control
Experts say Toyota’s basketball robots are testbeds for perception, coordination, and precision control, using a court-like environment to repeatedly calculate trajectories and execute accurate movements.
Reports suggest CUE7 prioritizes improved sensing, motion planning, and embodied AI integration, acting as a testbed for advancing robotic vision and control systems with potential applications beyond demonstrations.
Toyota’s CUE basketball robot started as a basic LEGO prototype and gradually developed into an advanced AI-driven humanoid capable of performing complex athletic actions.
Built to improve through experience, CUE can detect patterns, correct mistakes, and quickly adjust its stance, arm alignment, and shooting force, imitating how human athletes refine their skills over time.
CUE3 Sets Record with 2,020 Consecutive Free Throws
CUE3 gained global recognition in 2019 by setting a Guinness World Record with 2,020 consecutive free throws. Engineers eventually stopped the run even though the robot appeared capable of continuing, underscoring its exceptional precision and consistency.
Across successive versions, CUE evolved far beyond fixed-position shooting. It advanced to catching passes, positioning itself, and scoring from greater distances, including three-point shots. Later versions added mobility, letting the robot move, retrieve the ball, and dribble—showing greater autonomy and coordination.
With each new version, CUE progressed well beyond stationary shooting. It learned to catch passes, find its position on the court, and score from longer distances, including three-point range. Later upgrades added movement, letting the robot navigate, collect the ball, and dribble—showing greater autonomy and coordination.
Read the original article on:interestingengineering
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