Robotic-Design Becomes More Cute and Emotional

Recent studies show the time of pure functional designs is over, even for robotic systems. According to a study published in 2012 by Hiroshima University, looking at cute images can enhance concentration and even promote more careful behavior. Furthermore, recent research results published by Leiden University Netherlands underpin the apparent trend of Japanese cuteness culture among the western societies.

“The robotic-design and the Human-Robot-Interaction have to become more cute and emotional in both appearance and interaction. It makes the connection and interaction between people and robotic systems easier and better,” says Robert M Wenzel, Expert in future technologies and tomorrows business.

For years, pure functional design has been the method of choice for designing robotic systems. Just the solution of the problem counted. “However, today’s progress in new technologies enables robotic to enter new markets that requires more than the obsolete pure functional design,” says Wenzel.

“Twenty years ago you could build a functional system and be very successful. These days, new and innovative ways are required to be attractive for your audience in particular for in the personal robots market,” he said.

Since starting working in robotics more than 15 years ago, several robotic products had been implemented according to his principle “pure functional design is not enough” and became successfully around the world. As he points out, however, the shift away from pure functional design is difficult for many to accept.

“In most companies, pure functional design is the sole method of developing new systems. Managers and developers simply haven’t accepted the reality that more is needed for personal and industrial robots to be successful,” says Wenzel.

Wenzel cites numerous examples how robotics can overcomes pure functional design. He points out: It is important for personal robots that they will be loved like companions comparable to cats and dogs. “Hereby cuteness is the main factor that connects people with the robot emotionally,” he states.

The latest trends in the robotic industry are supportive robots, which are co-working systems. Those systems are in a continuous communication with humans and have to deal with the emotions of them in both sending and receiving them. Here a pure functional design will not be enough to be accepted. “Such systems have to be ‘lovable’ in appearance and interaction,” points the expert out.