Cambodian students created robotic arms that can draw in various styles, including the beloved Ghibli animation style. Supplied
In a groundbreaking fusion of robotics, automation and art, students at CamTech are exploring the capabilities of robotic arms that can draw in various styles, including the beloved Ghibli animation style.
Spearheading this project is Kosal Cholsa, a robotics and automation student at the school’s Faculty of Engineering, whose innovations are drawing widespread attention for their creativity and precision.
At the heart of this drawing robot lies a sophisticated Python program designed to interface seamlessly with a robotic arm.
Cholsa, who developed the system, explains that the robot's capabilities stem from a few critical functions embedded in the code, which can be accessed on GitHub.
“The system processes an input image, applies algorithms such as Gaussian blur, Canny edge detection and contour mapping, and then calculates the position of every pixel on the image,” says Cholsa.
“By mapping the coordinates relative to an A4 paper size, the software generates precise movement commands for the robot,” he adds.
The robot arm, specifically the GOFA CRB 15000, a collaborative robot from ABB, moves according to these calculated coordinates, using commands like “pen down” or “pen up” to create the drawing on the paper.
This process can take anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes per image, depending on its complexity, with up to 30,000 commands being sent to the robot during a single drawing session.
“The robot doesn't just draw; it captures the essence of the image with incredible precision,” Cholsa tells The Post.
“The drawing process requires the robot to move accurately to multiple points, something that would be near impossible with human hands, especially for intricate designs,” he notes.
The robot arm moves according to calculated coordinates, using commands like “pen down” or “pen up” to create the drawing on the paper. Supplied
Ghibli-style magic
One of the most striking features of the drawings produced by this robot is their resemblance to the enchanting, soft tones and fantastical details of the much-loved Japanese Ghibli animation studio.
For Cholsa, the choice to use Ghibli-style images was not just about aesthetics but also about quality.
The pixel clarity of animated images allows the robot to work with better visual data compared to real-world photographs, ensuring that the final drawing retains the richness and detail that viewers expect from high-quality animation.
“The Ghibli style is the perfect choice for this robot. It's not just about capturing an image; it's about giving the robot the best possible data to work with,” he says.
“With Ghibli-style images, the robot can produce the highest quality drawings, making them more appealing and truer to the style,” he adds.
This process can take anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes per image, depending on its complexity, with up to 30,000 commands being sent to the robot during a single drawing session. Supplied
A connection to Khmer New Year
Cholsa also sees a deeper cultural connection to the Cambodian celebration of Khmer New Year.
As the robot draws, crowds gather around, watching in awe as the arm moves gracefully, tracing the lines of the artwork.
The communal sense of wonder and unity that these drawings inspire echoes the gatherings and festivities that are characteristic of the Khmer New Year.
“Just like Khmer New Year brings people together, the robot’s drawing process has that same sense of gathering,” says Cholsa.
“There is a collective energy, a shared experience as people marvel at how technology can create art in real-time,” he notes.
The project made a notable appearance at CamTech University's Songkran programme, an annual event celebrating the traditional Khmer New Year.
While the robot’s inclusion was not initially planned, it quickly became a highlight of the event, with attendees fascinated by the robotic arm’s ability to produce intricate drawings.
Cholsa explained that while the robot may have been a last-minute addition, it turned out to be a great way for everyone to experience something new.
“At the very least, we all got to take home a unique drawing as a memento,” he says.
Public reception and future applications
The robot’s drawing demonstrations garnered significant public attention. While some marvel at the precision and automation, others question the need for such an expensive robot to create drawings.
However, Cholsa believes that the true value of the robot lies in its potential for industrial applications.
He says the robot’s ability to work with precision and automation makes it ideal for various industries, such as metal welding or spray painting.
“The framework we’re building can be adapted for any task that requires exact control, whether it’s in art or in manufacturing,” he explains.
A Glimpse into the future
Cholsa’s journey with robotics is just beginning. With a background in electronics, mechanics and software, he is keen on applying his skills to solve real-world problems, particularly in areas like waste management and education.
He hopes that his work with robotics can inspire other students to pursue similar paths in technology and innovation.
“My goal is simple: use technology to solve problems, whether it’s in waste management, education, or other societal issues,” he says.
“There are endless possibilities with robotics, and I’m excited to see where it will take me,” he continues.
As the project continues to develop, it’s clear that Cholsa’s innovative approach to robotics and automation is not only pushing the boundaries of what robots can do but also inspiring a new generation to think creatively about the intersection of technology and art.
