Well, this project indeed makes a difference. A totally new approach in doing robotics is being worked at the University of Tokyo, just right at the moment. Not only the shapes of the robots, but also the behaviour and the screaming colors are derived from primitive organic monsters, that live under the sea. They look like toys, but if you inspect the pictures carefully, you see how big they really are! For me, this project is nothing less, than the begin of a new era in robotics. Well done Mr. Yoichiro Kawaguchi!
Pink Tentacle writes.
Kawaguchi and his team are developing a basic reflex system for the primitive artificial life forms, as well as a visual processing system equipped with eyes that recognize and instinctively track certain objects. (...) With a more thorough understanding of how primitive life forms survive, the researchers believe they can provide robots with a better ability to move, hunt, sense danger, and escape. (...) If all goes according to schedule, they will have a fully functional robot in two years.
There are more pictures available on Pink Tentacle and Robot Watch.
(repost from Eggshell Robotics)