Symphony of Solace

by Robin Jonsson & Dyno Robotics

VIDEO

Concept & Prototype description

The selected concept for the project is a desktop robot, chosen for its affordability, which makes it accessible to a larger population, including elderly relatives or municipalities looking to provide the product. This option allows for significant artistic input in designing human-robot communication, fostering the desired relationship between users and the robot. Compared to other concepts, the desktop robot offers greater flexibility in design and emphasizes the robot’s character and movement, without heavily focusing on AI technology. Additionally, it addresses the key factors for a good meal for the elderly, which are easily implemented in this concept.

Connection to the scenario
Future scenario: Poetry of Nutrition

This connects to the scenario of a world where deteriorated health among all generations and pandemics contributes to an increasing part of the population living in isolation, with few to none social interactions. Trends show that the world population is aging rapidly, at the time of the scenario in 2030, 1 in 6 people in the world will be over the age of 60, calling for a society that is better and rapidly adapted for a fast growing elderly population in need of care and support (World Health Organisation, 2024). The concept addresses first hand the values from the Futures Compass in regards to Resilience, Care, Health and Equality. Increasing social resilience for the isolated elderly, being one piece of the Care of our elderly, helping them retain good health and being a cheap product for everyone to ensure equality. In second degree the robot also assists with Knowledge, as the robot is always close at hand, and can assist in providing good factful information.

Technology

The project’s technical focus is on robotics, specifically using a desktop robot that is affordable and flexible, allowing for iterative development and testing. This approach enables the integration of LLMs (large language models) to enhance user interaction while evaluating various robot platforms. The goal is to select the best robot by testing its communication capabilities and adaptability, ensuring it meets requirements such as microphone, speakers, Wi-Fi connectivity, programmability, and controllable movement. Additionally, features like screens, wheels, arms, LEDs, and touch sensors are considered to enhance human-robot interaction. Multiple platforms, including LeTianPai Rux, LivingAI’s Emo, Eilik, and AIBI, are being explored as potential candidates for the project. The team will continue iterating on the platform, refining communication methods and nutrition assistance tailored to the target audience.