Scientists hoping prototype robot will perform tasks with good grace

A GROUP of scientists who set out to build a robot with human social skills may have improved on humanity - their creation courteously steps aside for people, smiles during conversation and politely asks directions.

The six-foot robot, named Grace after Graduate Robot Attending Conference, will wander a symposium on artificial intelligence that begins today, where it will demonstrate its good manners.

It will try to sign in at the registration desk, find a conference room, give a speech and answer questions.