Robotic member of Japanese basketball team sets free throws record

AI basketball-playing robot, CUE3, had broken the Guinness World Records title for the most consecutive basketball free throws by a humanoid robot (assisted).

CUE3 is developed by Toyota volunteers and is an official member of the professional basketball team Alvark Tokyo. The robot has small motors in each axis and detects the goal position using the camera and radar attached to its chest. Using the readings taken off the camera, CUE3 moves the motors based on AI learning.

The technological adventure helped announce Guinness World Records Day in Japan, a day in November which is aiming to inspire people around the globe to push themselves and attempt a record.

Toyota volunteers found their AI development inspiration from a scene from Japanese manga series "SLAM DUNK" by Takehiko Inoue. In the manga, the main character Hanamichi Sakuragi improves his basketball shots by practising shots 20,000 times.

CUE3's shooting skills were put to the test with the official attempt in May 2019 in which it needed to achieve 2,020 successful shots. One missed shot would end the challenge, meaning the pressure was on.

During the challenge, Toyota volunteers placed the ball on CUE3's hands and executed the shooting action from the control desk. Tension was high as any error in this manual operation could lead to the robot missing the hoop.

Seven hours into the challenge, CUE3 successfully reached the 2,020-mark to clinch the record. Afterwards, the team's project leader, Tomohiro Nomi, said that the world is changing "to an environment where new challenges are encouraged. I am happy that CUE3's attempt will inspire others".

What will your adventure be?

Feeling inspired to attempt a Guinness World Records title yourself? Discover your Spirit of Adventure by finding out more about GWR Day, including how you can get involved on the day itself (Thursday 14 November). We realise everyone’s adventure is different, so whether it's taking on a new challenge, fulfiling a desire for adrenaline or perfecting your existing skills – there's a record waiting for you.