Self-titled 'sculptor roboticist' David Hanson, right, poses with his creation, Hertz, left, on Thursday, Jan., 8, 2004, in Dallas. Hertz is an animated robot head he built in about nine months. Hanson and other robot makers believe that social robots, like Hertz, will one day serve a variety of functions: tutor, companion, even security guard. But should they look human?




ASIMO, the world's most advanced humanoid robot, developed by Honda Motor Company, shows off its dance moves at the California Science Center in Los Angeles, California February 14, 2004. The 4-foot tall robot can walk forward and backward, turn smoothly and climbs stairs, and was created for the purpose of someday helping people in need. The 'Say Hello to ASIMO' North American Educational Tour is designed to encourage students to study robotics and science





One of many robotic dogs is seen on exhibit at the Gigantic Artspace in New York, Friday, Feb. 6, 2004. The dogs, which are wired to sniff out toxic materials, are the brainchild of Natalie Jeremijenko, a lecturer in engineering at Yale University and self-described technoartist.