Honda introduced its new 3E Robotics Concept (Empower, Experience, Empathy)at CES 2018 recently, demonstrating a range of experimental technologies engineered to understand people’s needs and make their lives better. Through a suite of robotic concepts expressing a variety of functions and designs, Honda shared its vision of a society where robotics and AI can assist people in many situations such as disaster recovery, recreation and learning from human interaction to become more helpful and empathetic.
Honda’s 3E Robotics Concept is part of the company’s core areas of focus at CES 2018: robotics, mobility, and energy management. Honda intends to pursue these areas through its “open innovation” approach, developing technology themes that foster collaboration with partners who share Honda’s vision. Rather than stand-alone devices that work independently, Honda envisions robotics as multiple devices that work together as a system, enabling people to expand their life’s potential.
At CES 2018, Honda is also showcasing Mobile Power Pack World, featuring the broad application of a swappable, rechargeable battery pack and exchanger system that allows for easy storage of excess renewable energy. From powering vehicles to running home appliances, the system provides a flexible energy solution that can improve people’s lives, especially in regions where the energy supply may be unstable.
“Empower” represents Honda’s concept that robotics and people can work together while leveraging each other’s strengths. Honda demonstrated this idea through the 3E-D18, an autonomous off-road workhorse device utilizing AI to support people in a broad range of work activities. Designed by Honda R&D Americas, 3E-D18 is outfitted with an electric-powered drivetrain and can accommodate a multitude of attachments, bringing efficiencies and increasing safety for public, commercial, and consumer enterprises, including search and rescue, fire fighting, construction, and agriculture. The 3E-D18 robotic device has the potential to minimize human exposure to dangerous environments and can perform time-consuming chores or mundane tasks. Watch video of 3E-D18 at Honda.us/3E-D18.
Based on Honda’s ATV chassis, which has a 30-year history of accessing hard-to-reach locations, 3E-D18 is equipped with four-wheel drive and aggressive, virtually indestructible airless tires, enabling it to climb almost any obstacle. The 3E-D18 features GPS and sensor-based autonomy, which are capable of guiding the unit in almost any environment. Its small size makes it super maneuverable and perfect for a variety of environments.
Honda also displayed 3E-B18, a robotic device designed for casual use in indoor or outdoor spaces, empowering people to be mobile in a variety of situations. With additional attachments, the 3E-B18 platform can be used to support people with their daily activities such as a baggage cart or a stroller. Its compact size and ability to turn in a small radius enable it to navigate in tight spaces, while the height-adjustable seating features a function to maintain a level seat even when it is driven uphill or downhill. 3E-B18’s narrow footprint allows it to maneuver as flexibly as a pedestrian so that it can be used in many locations. For 3E-B18, Honda envisions a base platform powered by Honda’s Mobile Power Pack that can be outfitted with AI sensors for autonomous operation, and that connects with several attachments to create a range of use scenarios. Watch video of 3E-B18 at Honda.us/3E-B18.
