You missed the Uncanny Valley by this much

Posted on March 18, 2009
Filed Under Domo arigato, Mr. Roboto, Tokyoh-no! | 1 Comment |

Hey there, science kids! A new robot is on the prowl. You know where?

Here’s a hint: the robot is female (in design), looks like a blow-up doll and can be your friend. If you guessed Japan based off of those hints, then you’re right!

That’s right, those traitors to the human race are once again unleashing a robot upon the world that could possibly kill us all. It’s bad enough when they threaten the lives of our future and also try to put people out of a job — now they’re trying to make robots the latest fashion trend! The HRP-4C will make its runway debut at the Tokyo Fashion Show, most probably displaying all the hottest designs in what’s new and trendy for the on-the-go metallic overlord.

Unfortunately, HRP-4C didn’t function as planned today. Reports say that the robot, “kept looking surprised, opening its mouth and eyes in a stunned expression, when the demonstrator had asked it to smile or look angry.” Hmm, sounds like a fully functional model-slash-actress to us.

Most everyone would assume that’s the equivalent of Dull Surprise. But maybe in this case, it’s Doll Surprise?

Luckily, she appears to be stuck in “Asimo-Walk” mode. Any mobility on her part could cause her to be that much deadlier.

Written by Chris "Chugs" Taylor