Advancing humanoid robots: exploring materials and design for enhanced aesthetics and emotional connection

Overview

https://research.qut.edu.au/designlab/https://research.qut.edu.au/designlab/

Humanoid robots are increasingly being developed for a variety of applications including healthcare, customer service, and industrial automation. However, their effectiveness depends not only on their artificial intelligence, technical capabilities, functionality and efficiency but also on the design and application of exterior materials for enhanced interaction with humans. This research aims to investigate how the application of colour, materials, and form (CMF) and other concepts of wearable fashion and innovative design can improve the aesthetics, perception, emotional connection and overall human-robot interactions (HRI).

Research activities

The research team includes Associate Professor Rafael Gomez (Founder and head of the BMW Group + QUT Design Academy), Dr Shayne Beaver (Study Area Coordinator Industrial Design), Dr Scott Mayson (School of Design, RMIT University) and Anton Ruckman (Director, WOWME Design).

The projects will explore the ways in which concepts of fashion, wearability, CMF (colour, material, form) impacts the aesthetics, perceptions, emotional connections and overall interaction of humanoid robots in future contexts and scenarios. Some of the activities conducted throughout the research might include:

Material analysis

A comparative study of various materials used in existing humanoid robots to evaluate their effectiveness, aesthetics, and appropriateness for context

Design evaluation

Case studies of leading humanoid robots to assess design choices, human-robot interaction (HRI) effectiveness, and aesthetic appeal. This may include an analysis and evaluation of the ways robots have been portrayed in science fiction films

Prototype development

A conceptual prototype will be developed, integrating optimised materials and design and fashion principles

Focus groups

Evaluate end-user perceptions of prototypes utilising optimised material application.

Outcomes

The study will provide theoretical and practical insights into how CMF selection and application, alongside concepts of fashion and wearability, can enhance humanoid robot aesthetics, emotional connection, and perception for specific contexts. The findings will benefit designers, roboticists, and engineers working on next-generation humanoid robots.

Objectives include:

• studying and classifying CMF factors that impact human-robot interactions, perceptions, aesthetic appeal and emotional experience in specific contexts
• understand how concepts of wearability and fashion might apply to humanoid robots in specific contexts and HRI scenarios
• identifying aspects of current humanoid robot designs that impact interaction, user perceptions and emotional responses in distinct contexts of use.

Skills and experience

The ideal candidate may have expertise in industrial design and fashion (undergraduate degree in either field), with a specific interest and skills in CMF (colour, materials, finish), prototyping, or robotics. They may have prior experience or a strong interest in exploring materials and its relationship to robotics. They might also have an interest in fashion design, textiles, materials, and wearability.

Educational background

Honours or master degree in industrial/product design or a double degree in industrial design and fashion. Strong academic performance in previous studies is expected.

Research skills

The candidate should possess strong research skills, including the ability to conduct literature reviews, observations, interviews, surveys, gather and analyse data, and generate meaningful insights. Experience in qualitative research methods is desirable.

Technical knowledge

Background in materials, fabrication, prototyping (physical making and 3D printing) is desirable. A very strong capability in aesthetics and form, and its relationship with materiality. An interest and knowledge of fashion and wearability concepts. Knowledge of design software and presentation tools is also beneficial.

Creativity and design expertise

The ideal candidate should have a passion for design innovation and exploration, with a demonstrated ability to think creatively. Strong materials understanding, aesthetic sensibilities and an understanding of experience design are desirable.

Communication and collaboration

Excellent written, visual and graphic communication skills are essential for presenting research findings, writing academic papers, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams. The ability to work effectively with industry professionals, researchers, and other stakeholders is highly valued.

Motivation and independence

The student should exhibit self-motivation, curiosity, and the ability to work independently. Demonstrating initiative, problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage time effectively are important qualities for successful completion of the PhD program.

Scholarships

You may be eligible to apply for a research scholarship.

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Keywords

• robotics
• human-robot interaction
• humanoid robotics materials
• robotics and fashion

Contact

Contact the supervisor for more information.