Sparky 2
 Sparky 2  Close up of Sparky's face  Close up of Sparky's guts |
1996 - ongoing... Project DescriptionSparky 2 is a prototype interactive videochat robot, built on top of an earlier version which was featured at the '06 MakerFaire - www.makezine.com/pub/ev/170It's called Sparky 2 and it uses the Make Controller to remotely operate the robot chassis over the internet. A WiFi Mac Mini is at the heart of the robot, connected to the Make Controller, which is connected to two RC servos, which control two 24v DC motors scavenged from a motorized wheelchair. The interactive functionality of the Sparky 2 platform is similar to iChat or other Internet video communication technologies - with a few significant differences. The entire platform is self-powered, mobile, and remotely operated by a controller who may be physically anywhere in the world, provided that they have a webcam and Internet access. While the operator's face appears on the video monitor on the robot, a matching webcam onboard the robot transmits live video back to the controller, allowing for realtime control of the robot’s motion. In this way, the robot becomes a “telefactor” or remote host for the operator, allowing for almost unlimited freedom of movement and face-to-face interaction anywhere there is WiFi. Project ResourcesMarque's page at www.marquecornblatt.com/art/robotics.html features video footage of Sparky 2 in action, with interviews with Marque. |
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