Toward Autonomous Driving by Musculoskeletal Humanoids (RAM 2020)

Title: Toward Autonomous Driving by Musculoskeletal Humanoids: A Study of Developed Hardware and Learning-Based Software Authors: Kento Kawaharazuka, Kei Tsuzuki, Yuya Koga, Yusuke Omura, Tasuku Makabe, Koki Shinjo, Moritaka Onitsuka, Yuya Nagamatsu, Yuki Asano, Kei Okada, Koji Kawasaki, and Masayuki Inaba Accepted at IEEE Robotics and Automation Magazine arxiv - This paper summarizes an autonomous driving project by musculoskeletal humanoids. The musculoskeletal humanoid, which mimics the human body in detail, has redundant sensors and a flexible body structure. These characteristics are suitable for motions with complex environmental contact, and the robot is expected to sit down on the car seat, step on the acceleration and brake pedals, and operate the steering wheel by both arms. We reconsider the developed hardware and software of the musculoskeletal humanoid Musashi in the context of autonomous driving. The respective components of autonomous driving are conducted using the benefits of the hardware and software. Finally, Musashi succeeded in the pedal and steering wheel operations with recognition.