Researchers in Singapore have developed a humanoid social robot with brunette hair and soft skin. The emotionally intelligent robot, Nadine, can remember your name and face if she has met you before, and recall what you talked to her during previous conversations. Nadine looks like her creator Professor Nadia Thalmann of Nanyang Technological University (NTU).
Nadine serving as a receptionist at NTU
Scientists have currently employed the robot as a receptionist at the NTU to test her skills. Featuring an intelligent software similar to Apple’s Siri, the robot acts like a human. She has her own personality, autonomously expressing emotions and gestures. Nadine is also capable of changing her mood depending on the topic and tone of the conversation. It smiles when greeting you and looks you in the eye when talking.
Nadia Thalmann said in a statement that the humanoid robot is like a “real companion that is always with you and conscious of what is happening.” With knowledge of the language, etiquette, and emotions, these social robots could be like C-3PO, the iconic droid from Star Wars. In future, robots like Nadine could serve as companions, office assistants, and caretakers for the elderly and the children.
Meet EDGAR, a new tele-presence robot
NTU scientists have also developed a tele-presence robot called EDGAR that can be controlled remotely. Using a special webcam, you can control EDGAR from anywhere in the world. Since it can replicate your movements in real-time, you can interact at a conference even without physically being there. Your face and expressions are displayed on EDGAR’s face in real-time, while the robot mimics your upper body movements.
Researchers at NTU said tele-presence gives an additional dimension to mobility. It allows you to project your physical presence at one or more locations simultaneously. Gerald Seet of the NTU said robots like EDGAR could prove useful in business, education, and tourism industries because geography would no longer be an obstacle.
