alt Hacker NewsOkay looks cool, but what can this robot actually do? I get the concept and the mechanics, but it’s not obvious what the practical capabilities are. Is it meant as a research platform for soft robotics, a demo of compliant movement, or does it have any specific real-world tasks in mind like inspection, underwater sensing, or manipulation? I’m curious what the intended application is beyond the technical novelty.
It says:
We see potential uses in companionship and affective interaction. The robot’s ability to elicit spontaneous touching and positive emotional responses suggests it could serve in therapeutic settings or as a social presence for people who spend time alone. The quiet operation and gentle movement make it suitable for environments where noise and sudden motions would be disruptive.