Disney Parks debuts new AI-powered Olaf robot
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The magic that empowers Disney parks around the world are getting an AI upgrade.
The amusement giant’s parks division has released a first look at a the new, AI-powered Olaf animatronic in a series of social media posts and a short YouTube documentary showing the robot’s ability to navigate the park on its own, move its limbs and facial expressions, and joke with guests about frozen topics.
In the new robot’s commercials, Olaf zips around Disneyland Paris’ Frozen Land while park experts explain how it works. At one point, the animatronic stops between them, looks up, and says a bright “Hello” with a wave.
Mashable speed of light
Disney’s crafty Imagineers have designed a new generation of animatronics using a form of artificial intelligence called: reinforcement learningwhich allows a self-propelled robot to imitate movements and autonomously navigate and interact with its environment. Disney is partnering with NVIDIA and Google DeepMind to create a new open source simulation framework called Newton and an accompanying simulator called Kamino to power robotics.
The robot’s nose and arms are also movable, just like in the movies, and iridescent fibers have been placed on its body to mimic magical snow. With additional artificial intelligence that enhances guests’ ability to speak and respond independently, Disney has called it the most expressive and lifelike characters it has ever created.
“This debut marks a new chapter in Disney’s character innovation, where technology, storytelling and collaboration come together to make the screen a reality,” the company wrote in a blog post, noting that it plans to expand the robot lineup in the future. “BDX Droids, self-balancing HERBIE and now Olaf represent increasing levels of performance and innovation in bringing Disney characters to life. The speed at which we can create new characters and introduce them to guests is unprecedented.”
Olaf the robot will soon begin interacting with guests at Disneyland Paris, according to Disney, and will make limited appearances at the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort. Watch the latest episode of Disney »We call it Imagineering“, here’s a behind-the-scenes YouTube show, to see more:
