How to build an imitator

Abstract

The aim of this chapter is to parallel the development of imitation in a human infant and in an autonomous robot. To draw a valid comparison between the two systems – namely the infant and the robot – it is necessary to insure that their respective architectures present sufficient basic similarities. The present chapter will thus start with a description of the main features that enable a human neonate and the autonomous robot designed by the ETIS group to develop a capacity to imitate. Note that the robot is not implemented to imitate and that imitation will develop spontaneously as a result of the capacity of the robot to couple perception and action together with an imprecision in its visual perception.