RobotCub: an open framework for research in embodied cognition

Abstract

We describe a research initiative in embodied cognition that will create and exploit a 54 degree-of-freedom humanoid robot. This humanoid - RobotCub is currently being designed and the final system will be made freely available to the scientific community through an open systems GNU-like general public license. In addition, we describe a research agenda in cognitive systems that is based on the co-developmental learning through embodied physical interaction: exploration, manipulation, imitation, and communication. This agenda borrows heavily from experience in developmental psychology and cognitive neuroscience. All cognitive software associated with RobotCub will also be available under the open systems license.