Meet Punyo, TRI’s Soft Robot for Whole-Body Manipulation Research
A Toyota Research Institute presenter discusses how the Punyo robot uses soft materials, tactile sensing, and whole-body manipulation to handle large objects and collaborate safely with people.
In this talk
- 0:07
Robots that help with everyday tasks
Toyota Research Institute aims to build robots that assist people with tasks at home and elsewhere. Many tasks call for the whole body, not just hands: carrying grocery bags while opening a door, lifting a box, moving furniture, or gathering laundry.
- 0:45
Punyo’s soft, tactile design
Punyo’s hands, arms, and chest use compliant coverings and tactile sensors to make contact across its body. The soft surface conforms to objects, helping prevent slips and spread force. Its camera-equipped “bubble paws” replace standard grippers, while the project focuses on larger objects alongside TRI’s work on fine manipulation.
- 1:22
Teaching contact-rich skills
The team develops skills through human demonstrations and high-fidelity simulation. Teleoperation records camera views, touch data, and robot motion to train autonomous behavior. In simulation, a rough demonstration, starting state, and goal can help Punyo work out how to rotate and lift different large objects.
- 2:04
Using the whole body to carry more
A grippy surface and holding objects close to the chest can reduce the power needed to manipulate heavy items. Punyo uses its body to carry more than it can with outstretched hands alone. Its softness and tactile sensing also support safer, more responsive interaction alongside people.
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