The robot pictured above is the HPR-2, a robot built through the cooperation of scientists at the University of Tokyo and Kawasada Industries.

The robot is equipped with a video motion capture system which allows it to watch human movements and then accurately duplicate them. The HPR-2 is 5 feet tall and weighs 125 lbs.

In the video below the robot’s mimicking ability are shown to be extremely effective as it performs a traditional Japanese dance it had previously watched called the Aizu-Bandaisan. With this technology robots such as the HPR-2 can be used to preserve knowledge of various elements of Japanese tradition. Besides dancing, the HPR-2 can also serve tea, play drums, and perform martial arts. 

The possibilities with technology are limitless. And I can’t wait until they develop robots who can break dance. You know they are coming.

[source:Wired]