Toyota, renowned for its automobiles, has been a frontrunner in the industry for many years. While the company primarily focuses on automotive projects, it also enjoys exploring new technologies. In 2017, Toyota Engineering Society (TES), a group within Toyota founded in 1947, delved into robot creation. One of their latest creations is Pixi, a hydrogen-powered robot capable of kicking a soccer ball.
The development of Pixi presented some challenges for the team, as they had limited experience in robotics. However, they persevered and completed the first model ahead of schedule. With the ability to kick the ball at speeds of 18 to 25 miles per hour, the team gained confidence and continued their efforts. They also gathered data from human players to improve the robot’s performance.
Although robotics was new territory for Toyota, TES utilized components from the automaker’s inventory for Pixi. The robot utilized sensors found in assisted driving technologies to detect its target, and even sported a cape made from excess airbag material. The final result was a humanoid-looking robot ready to take penalty kicks in a soccer match.
However, the lead-up to Pixi’s big reveal in front of 300 children was not without its difficulties. The night before the demonstration, the team discovered that Pixi’s plastic neck bone had broken, and there was not enough time to 3D print a replacement. Fortunately, one team member found a quick solution by bringing in a piece of wood the next day and fixing Pixi just 20 minutes before the show. Ultimately, Pixi successfully kicked the soccer ball at a speed of 53 mph, slightly exceeding the average speed of 50 mph.
TES is comprised of 28,000 volunteers within Toyota, with full-time members receiving development funds and access to research facilities. Toyota tasks TES with projects aimed at enhancing technology, skills, and knowledge, benefiting all members. The group has previously created a basketball-playing robot, a garbage-collecting fish robot, and other unconventional inventions.
The choice to build a robotic soccer player was driven by the sport’s widespread appeal. In addition to improving technical skills, TES aimed to “ignite the monozukuri (making of things) spirit” among its members. Yuki Murai, assistant manager of Toyota’s Vehicle Manufacturing Engineering Division, stated, “If we can’t spark the interest of others, it’s nothing more than a self-indulgent exercise.”
Robots in the automotive industry are becoming increasingly common. In 2020, Hyundai acquired an 80 percent stake in Boston Dynamics, investing $400 million to enhance the intelligence of robots. Tesla also unveiled its own robot in late 2022, while Ram Trucks developed an inductive charging robot for its electrified Revolution pickup.
