Cornell Researchers Develop Robot That Expresses Emotions Through "Goosebumps"

This Jolly Little Robot Gets Goosebumps

Cornell researchers have developed a novel robot capable of expressing emotions through tactile feedback, specifically by generating "goosebumps" on its skin. This innovation aims to enhance human-robot interaction by providing a more intuitive and relatable way for robots to communicate their internal states.

The Robot's Emotional Expression

The robot prototype, designed with a cute, smiling face and a rubbery skin, can physically manifest emotions. When feeling threatened or scared, it can raise small spikes on its skin. Conversely, it can generate "goosebumps" to express delight or excitement. This tactile communication method is being explored as a new input/output (I/O) system for robotic projects.

Inspiration and Technology

The inspiration for this tactile skin comes from the natural world, particularly the skin of octopi, which can change texture and become spiky when threatened. The researchers, Yuhan Hu, Zhengnan Zhao, Abheek Vimal, and Guy Hoffman, utilized a computer-controlled elastomer that can inflate and deflate on demand to create these dynamic skin configurations. This allows the robot's physical expressions to synchronize with its facial expressions, aiding human understanding.

Advancing Human-Robot Interaction

As stated by the researchers in IEEE Spectrum, effective nonverbal communication is crucial for robots to be perceived as useful and less machine-like. By incorporating behaviors like "goosebumps," robots can foster a greater sense of familiarity and connection with humans. This approach moves beyond purely functional interactions to create more empathetic and engaging robotic companions.

Key Features and Applications

• Tactile Emotion Display: The robot's skin can change texture to convey emotions.
• Inspiration: Modeled after octopus skin's ability to change texture.
• Technology: Utilizes a computer-controlled elastomer for dynamic skin changes.
• Goal: To improve human-robot interaction through nonverbal cues.
• Researchers: Yuhan Hu, Zhengnan Zhao, Abheek Vimal, and Guy Hoffman from Cornell.

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