Embodiment of text based on virtual robotic avatar

The paper proposes a concept of embodying textual messages based on virtual or physical robotic avatar(s), to efficiently express non-verbal information embedded in contexts. With the concept, textual messages are expressed into speeches, facial expressions, and body languages through a robotic avatar. Interfaces constructed under such a concept are expected to have higher efficiency in exchanging information embedded in contexts than text-based interfaces do. A prototype based on virtual avatar(s) is developed. The avatar is constructed by regular surfaces. Body languages and some simple facial expressions are obtained by controlling movement of links and configuring body language functions. The system can generate one or multiple avatars for several intended applications.