ROBODADA

A practice-based approach towards human-robot interaction

Join us on September 16 for an innovative workshop, ROBODADA: A practice-based Approach Towards Human-Robot Interaction led by Prof. Andreas Muxel from the Hybrid Things Lab.

Please confirm your attendance with Zeph Tibodeau as spots are limited!

ABOUT THE WORKSHOP:

Through hands-on activities using the ROBODADA kit, this workshop will challenge traditional perspective on technology.

We have always been developing tools as extensions of ourselves to become “more efficient” and “better.” But with the rise of autonomous and robotic systems, technology is also perceived as something “other” and as a proactive counterpart. Instead of controlling, we start to “co-operate” with technology. In our coexistence, we ascribe almost human qualities, emotions, and liveliness to our technical counterparts, but the rational machine is something else. How might these things be designed if they evolve from passive tools to proactive and even social beings? How can we shape their “thingness” beyond naïve human imitation to overcome an anthropomorphic design approach?

Participants will:

• Engage in Creative Design: Use everyday materials like cardboard, fabric, straws, sticks, rubber bands, and adhesive tape to create unique robotic forms.
• Explore Interactive Dynamics: Utilize a web-based interface to map facial expressions to robotic body language, enabling a richer understanding of robot-human interaction.
• Discuss Future Implications: Explore and discuss the future possibilities of human-robot interaction through experimental and playful approaches.

Materials Needed:

• Laptop or Tablet: Each ROBODADA Kit requires a device with a built-in webcam.
• Chrome Browser: Ensure that Google Chrome is pre-installed on your device (download it here).
• Craft Materials: Bring basic supplies such as scissors, cardboard, fabric, straws, sticks, rubber bands, and adhesive tape.
• Power Supply: Multiple plugs will be required for powering the ROBODADA Kits.

ABOUT ANDREAS MUXEL:

Andreas Muxel is Professor for “Physical Human-Machine Interfaces” at the University of Applied Sciences Augsburg, Faculty of Design where he founded and is directing the Hybrid Things Lab. In his design practice and research he is always looking for a poetical and engaging way of interaction with things, regardless of whether they are hardware or software. His projects have been internationally published, exhibited and awarded (p.ex. ACM DIS Eindhoven, Ars Electronica Festival Linz, FILE Festival São Paulo, TodaysArt Festival Brussels, VIDA Award Madrid, Share Prize Torino).

: September 16, 2024

: TBC

📩 To register contact Zeph Tibodeau at zeph.thibodeau@gmail.com

 More info: Hybrid Things Lab | andreasmuxel.com