Experience Human-Robot Interaction - Meet Nadine | TechHRSG'19|
A Nanyang Technological University presenter discusses human-robot interaction through Nadine, a social robot developed by Professor Nadia Thalmann, with examples from research and public-facing roles.
In this talk
- 1:02
What makes a robot social
The presenter defines a social robot as an autonomous machine that communicates with people or other agents according to social norms. Examples mentioned include Nadine, Pepper, ASIMO, Sophia, and Atlas.
- 2:33
Nadine’s design and architecture
Nadine’s appearance was modeled on Nadia Thalmann, and one motivation for the project was to offer companionship to Thalmann’s elderly mother, who lived alone in Geneva. Cameras and microphones feed data into systems for emotion, memory, and social attention, which guide speech, gaze, facial expressions, and gestures.
- 4:32
Emotion, memory, and interaction
Demonstrations show Nadine responding differently to friendly or unpleasant remarks and recalling details from a conversation. In one exchange, she remembers Felix’s name, marketing role, studies in consumer behavior, and interest in tennis; the presenter says she has worked as a receptionist at the Institute of Media Innovation.
- 9:26
Gestures, languages, and public use
The team spent years modeling gestures such as grasping and handshaking, using 3D modeling and printed components for customized hands. Nadine can speak several languages, and the presenter says she learned Hindi in about a week before meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Singapore.
- 18:17
Care and workplace applications
Nadine moved from reception work to an AI role at an insurance company, where she answers questions. The presenter connects social robots with support for older adults, including fall prevention and personalized assistance with care such as medication.
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