How to “Make” Friends – 4 Clever Companion Bots

How to “Make” Friends – 4 Clever Companion Bots

The world of companion bots is growing rapidly, thanks to its inclusive nature and creative freedom. With the rise of accessible technology, anyone can join the Companion Bot family. Here are four highlights from talented bot makers who are pushing the boundaries of this fascinating field.

Crafting Lifelike Companions

Katherine Connell, aka Smalls, created Kitt, a fox companion bot with a realistic twist. To achieve this, she focused on two key elements: movement and look and feel. Kitt’s movements are controlled by MG90S and FH-2502 servos, which create lifelike gestures, such as wiggling ears and a swishing tail. The bot’s body is made from 3D-printed materials and ultra-soft faux fur, giving it a substantial and lifelike weight.

Interactive and Cuddly Bots

Angela Sheehan’s Nova is a cuddly bot designed for parties and events. Inspired by her encounters with fellow bot makers, Nova features edge-lit LED wings that change color randomly or with the help of a magic wand. The bot also has flapping capabilities and a capacitive touch sensor on her head, allowing users to interact with her. Nova’s recent upgrade includes addressable LEDs in her fluffy body and a new carrying case for events.

Revitalizing Endangered Languages

Danielle Boyer, an Anishinaabe youth robotics designer, created the SkoBot, a wearable language revitalization robot. The bot is designed to teach and communicate in endangered Indigenous languages using ethical AI. The latest version, modeled after the Makwa, speaks in a child’s voice recorded by Anishinaabe youth and has already served hundreds of children.

Repair, Redesign, and Reclamation

Alex Glow is returning to her roots with a new version of Archimedes, her original owl companion bot. Debuted at Maker Faire Bay Area 2018, Archimedes is now 6 years old and in need of repair. Glow is building a new “Dark Archie” using reclaimed materials, such as recycled PLA, bike inner tubes, and broken solar panels. The bot will also feature origami parts and a refined design for easier replication.

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