Homebots

Echo, Jibo, Cubic, and FURo-i - these may sound like names of lead characters in sci-fi-fantasy films, but they are actually the next generation of personal assistant robots that will be revolutionizing your home. The global service robotics market is booming, and these robots are itching to be the next member of your family! These little AI creatures can entertain, teach people how to cook, provide home security, take photographs, and even read a bedtime story. They also can help lower energy bills, assist with scheduling, and provide companionship. They may be made out of metal and electronics, but these little guys don't look like little appliances. These robots are embedded with language processing and facial and object recognition software, that allows them to sense, respond, and learn as people engage with them. Robots like Pepper, built by Japanese companies Aldebaran and Softbank, provide companionship and affection; Pepper talks to you and knows how you're feeling by sensing joy, surprise, anger, doubt, and sadness through your facial expressions, body language, and the words you use. These robots aren’t merely robots, they have huge personalities that will capture your heart!

In this studio, students will explore new technologies and concepts for interactive home assistant robots. Using 3d fabrication tools and software, such as laser-cutters and 3d printers, students will prototype and build their assistant robots and test them with their peers and coaches. Through this process, students will also learn the basics of electronics, microcontrollers and computer programming (using the Arduino environment). Are you ready to build the next home robot companion?

Register here!

Focus Skills/Subjects/Technologies:

Design