New-Tech Europe Magazine | August 2017

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Machine intelligence development is fundamentally composed of two stages: (1) training an algorithm on large sets of sample data via modern machine learning techniques and (2) running the algorithm in an end-application that needs to interpret real-world data. This second stage is referred to as “inference,” and performing inference at the edge – or natively inside the device – brings numerous benefits in terms of latency, power consumption and privacy: Compile: Automatically convert a trained Caffe-based convolutional neural network (CNN) into an embedded neural network optimized to run on the onboard Movidius Myriad 2 VPU. Tune: Layer-by-layer performance metrics for both industry- standard and custom-designed neural networks enable

effective tuning for optimal real-world performance at ultra- low power. Validation scripts allow developers to compare the accuracy of the optimized model on the device to the original PC-based model. Accelerate: Unique to Movidius Neural Compute Stick, the device can behave as a discrete neural network accelerator by adding dedicated deep learning inference capabilities to existing computing platforms for improved performance and power efficiency. Movidius Neural Compute Stick is now available for purchase through select distributors for MSRP $79 and at the conference on Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition (CVPR) in Honolulu, Hawaii, from July 22-25.

NAO sets out to conquer new markets with the Zora solution

Fabrice Goffin and Tommy Deblieck, joint managing directors of Zora Bots. “Our first years of operation have allowed us to continually test and improve the way NAO is used on a day to day basis. Today, with the Zora ® solution, NAO is set to conquer new areas.” Over 10,000 NAO have already been sold in almost 70 countries. This strategic rapprochement between the two companies should

PARIS, JULY 20 2017 SoftBank Robotics and Zora Bots have just signed a major partnership aimed at reaching a wider audience for the humanoid robot NAO. Zora Bots, which has already deployed its software designed for robots in the health sector, is now the world’s leading distributor of NAO and is poised to expand its solution in many areas including retail, hospitality, education (STEM skills) and personal services. This strategic rapprochement in the

make it possible for NAO to attract an even wider audience. In retail, hospitality, education and other sectors, NAO equipped with the Zora ® solution is the ideal companion for carrying out repetitive tasks such as reception services, providing information (product/services catalogues, school exercises, events agendas) and leading activities. It is also perfect for offering opportunities for interaction unique to all individual user groups such as clients, students and colleagues. “Our vision has always been to create a solution that would allow everyone, regardless of whether they are adept at using new technologies, to imagine their profession and their everyday life differently through the intuitive use of an undeniably versatile and likeable robot,” add Zora Bots’ directors.” With SoftBank Robotics, we share this vision that every day, robots can assist man rather than replace him”.

international arena will bring humanoid robotics into a new dimension and make NAO available to a wider audience. Every day, the humanoid robot created by SoftBank Robotics and equipped with the Zora ® solution is already working alongside healthcare teams, performing various feats and providing new kinds of support throughout the world. In hospitals, treatment centres, nursing homes and care centres, this small robot just under 58 cm tall has been adopted as a working tool that makes it possible to improve patient care significantly. Today, SoftBank Robotics and Zora Bots have reached an agreement to expand their partnership. Designed and developed to universalise the use of humanoid robots, the Zora® solution will now be available worldwide, facilitating the use of NAO in a considerable number of domains. “Humanoid robotics is entering a new dimension,” explain

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