| |
 |
| |
The
Blanket Project was an effort to create a fully autonomous robotic
blanket, able to navigate through a bedroom or similar environment
seeking out people for intimate encounters. The blanket is intended to
be a subtle companion, not demanding much attention, rather quietly
nestling its way into one’s personal space to provide comfort and
physical stimulation, especially when a person is in need.
The
Blanket contains 31 motorized joints that are connected together in an
XY grid by aluminum linkages. This motorized skeleton enables
deformation into different shapes. In turn, the shapes are coordinated
into patterns by an attached computer creating kinetic motion. Some of
the patterns are gaits that move the device from one place to another,
and some embrace and stimulate a person.
At
this stage the patterns are randomized. The Blanket is not yet 'aware'
of its surroundings or people within. Still, viewers are free to engage
the Blanket, touching it, or lying underneath. In the next phase, a
variety of sensors will be added to monitor touch, pressure, and
motion, allowing the blanket to perceive its environment including the
shape of objects it covers. 'Machine Learning' will eventually be added
such that informed choices can be made based on previous experience.
ISEA2004
- Tallinn, Estonia - 2004 |
|
Oboro
- Montreal, Canada - 2006 |
|
|
