The Future of Domestic Robots: Dobby
In the ever-evolving world of technology, the future of general domestic robots is looking brighter than ever. Recent breakthroughs have paved the way for the integration of generalist robots into our home environments. Among these groundbreaking advancements is Dobby, a comprehensive framework designed for training multi-skilled robots in household tasks.
Ergonomic Data Collection Tool
At the heart of Dobby lies an innovative data collection tool called the Stick. This ingenious tool combines a Reacher grabber tool, 3D printed mounts, and an iPhone Pro. By integrating a smartphone, the Stick allows for the recording of high-resolution video depth and movement information. This tool simplifies and enhances the efficiency of gathering necessary data for robot training in a cost-effective and accessible way.
Comprehensive Data Set
Dobby’s second crucial feature is its comprehensive data set. Using the Stick, researchers compiled the Homes of New York dataset, which includes footage from 216 different real home environments. This extensive collection features 13 hours of interaction, over 1.5 million frames, and a rich variety of scenes and robot behaviors. The dataset also provides detailed action annotations, including the gripper’s pose and opening angle, allowing for precise training.
Pre-Trained Perception Model
Dobby incorporates a pre-trained perception model called home pre-trained representations (HPR). This model, trained on the Honi dataset, utilizes a state-of-the-art self-supervised learning algorithm called Moco v3. The HPR model enhances Dobby’s adaptability and responsiveness to different scenes found in various homes. Its ability to scale across diverse domestic settings sets the stage for more sophisticated and user-friendly domestic robots.
Deployment and Testing
In real home environments, Dobby’s practical application was tested using the Hello Robot stretch, a multifunctional mobile home robot. Impressively, the robot successfully learned to complete 109 different household tasks, with each task requiring only an average of five minutes of new video data for model fine-tuning. These results showcase Dobby’s potential in efficiently training robots for a wide array of domestic tasks and implementing them in different home settings.
Future Developments
Looking ahead, the researchers envision further development of Dobby. This includes the integration of a higher-level planner or policy to chain skills together for long-duration tasks, as well as improvements in the robot’s sensory capabilities. By enhancing Dobby’s features, developers aim to create more sophisticated, user-friendly domestic robots capable of performing meaningful, long-horizon tasks in our homes.
With the public release of Dobby’s data collection tool, dataset, and pre-trained model, other research teams can leverage these resources, potentially accelerating the advancement of domestic robot systems overall.
Transforming Text into Dynamic 3D Animations: Align Your Gaussians
Nvidia, the University of Toronto, and MIT have recently unveiled Align Your Gaussians (AIG), a revolutionary AI system capable of transforming text descriptions into dynamic 3D animations. This innovative system has the potential to transform the way we interact with digital content and offers promising applications in various creative and technical fields.
3D Gaussians for Motion Modeling
AIG represents 3D shapes using collections of 3D Gaussian functions. These Gaussians evolve over time through deformation fields, enabling the creation of visually stunning and realistic animations. AIG’s unique approach positions 3D Gaussians as a potential successor to the widely used neural radiance fields (nerfs) in generating realistic 3D environments.
Fusion of AI Models for Visual Accuracy
AIG employs different AI models to ensure visual accuracy. It utilizes the stable diffusion text-to-image model for rendering realistic appearances in individual frames, while the text-to-video model adds necessary temporal coherence to ensure fluid and natural motion in the animations. Additionally, AIG incorporates a multi-view 3D model to maintain geometric consistency from different viewpoints.
Generalization and Scalability
One remarkable feature of AIG is its ability to generalize and apply its learning to new concepts not encountered during training. This level of flexibility demonstrates the AI system’s potential in understanding and visualizing a vast array of scenarios and subjects in practical applications. AIG’s advancements pave the way for generating extended 4D scenes and simulations, revolutionizing creative tools and synthetic data generation.
Personalized Dance Videos: Dream Moving
In another groundbreaking development, Alibaba has unveiled Dream Moving, a cutting-edge system designed to create personalized dance videos. This innovative tool, resembling a TikTok video generator, allows users to generate dance videos using text or image prompts and brings customization to a whole new level.
Advanced Diffusion Models
Dream Moving relies on advanced diffusion models, consisting of two key components: the video control net and the content guider. The video control net manages the generation process, adhering to specified animations, while the content guider dictates the appearance of characters and backgrounds, ensuring a tailored experience for users.
Improved Motion Fidelity
By integrating motion blocks into the U-Net and control net, Dream Moving enhances the temporal consistency and motion fidelity of the generated dance videos. The system’s extensive training on over 1000 dance videos, along with the incorporation of mini GPT v2 for frame captions, ensure lifelike videos that flow seamlessly without transitions or special effects.
Dream Moving excels at generating personalized dance videos that respond to text, images, or a combination of both. Users can create videos featuring specific individuals dressed in attire of their choice, provided through images, resulting in unique and engaging dance content.
Conclusion
The future of domestic robots, 3D animations, and personalized dance videos is promising with the advancements of Dobby, Align Your Gaussians (AIG), and Dream Moving. Dobby’s innovative framework offers a comprehensive solution for training multi-skilled robots in household tasks, while AIG revolutionizes the creation of dynamic 3D animations through its fusion of AI models. Dream Moving brings personalized dance videos to a new level, allowing users to generate customized content easily. These technologies hold vast potential across diverse fields, from improving household efficiency to transforming digital content creation and personal entertainment.
As these AI systems continue to develop, the possibilities for enhanced robotics, creative animations, and interactive video content become increasingly boundless. With the integration of these technologies and ongoing research, the future holds exciting prospects for the integration of AI into various aspects of our daily lives.
