The Nokia Research Center is using the NXT as the robotic platform in a robot named Jeppe. Jeppe is a domestic pet robot designed for telepresence applications to allow a person to be virtually present, though that person is absent, which allows a more interactive form of video conferencing. The following video shows Jeppe perform:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=STDxF6AxwKU
The Jeppe robot has the following capabilities:
- make video calls (2 way audio, 1 way video)
- has 6 pre-defined gestures for movement
- can be controlled to move via a Nokia Internet Tablet, but only in the same WLAN (so far)
Below is a schematic of how Jeppe works.
The makers of Jeppe also request for help to develop it further, including:
- to be remotely controlled via the internet
- allow for users to create their own gestures
- allow Jeppe to move independently through knowing its position
- gather data (from surroundings, devices, etc) and transmit to users
You can go here to express your interest to help collaborate. Go here to learn more about the Jeppe project.