Cuddlefish is a revolutionary robotic avatar concept that enables safe physical interactions for people separated by distance.
We demonstrate a new robotic avatar in which pilots can embody a fish-like form, "swimming" through indoor spaces to interact, play, and accompany others remotely. Our soft flapping-wing floating avatar combines bioinspired design with cutting-edge technology to create lifelike, organic movements that enhance the sense of presence.
By mimicking the flapping flight of birds and the graceful swimming of aquatic creatures, pilots can control the avatar through intuitive body movements while engaging in meaningful interactions through the avatar's soft body and wings.
Soft body with blade-free propulsion enables safe, close-proximity flight around people. No spinning propellers means comfortable interaction without safety concerns.
Wings serve as a medium for affective gestures such as hugs, shoulder pats, and high-fives, enabling warm physical interactions beyond screen-based communication.
Organic, lifelike movement inspired by aquatic creatures provides a more natural experience compared to propeller-based avatars, evoking the feeling of interacting with a living being.
Body-tracking interface maps pilot movements to the avatar. Flap your arms to control wings, lean to adjust pitch - creating an immersive flying telepresence experience.
Compact design passes through standard doorframes, allowing the avatar to move freely between rooms and navigate domestic environments with ease.
Integrated camera provides real-time first-person flight visuals, immersing pilots in the flying experience as they navigate remote environments.
Cuddlefish evokes natural, affective responses from people, fostering warm emotional connections through physical interaction.
71% of participants reached out to touch the robot, with many stroking its soft body or gently cupping it. The soft, approachable design invites natural tactile interaction.
Participants spontaneously hugged the robot, describing it as "like a cute pet" and feeling warmth and affection. The robot's approach evoked desire to receive it with open arms.
When the robot waved its wings, people waved back, high-fived the wings, or grabbed them to "shake hands" - interpreting the movements as friendly greetings.
As the robot descended, participants instinctively reached out to catch it, showing protective and caring behaviors typically reserved for living creatures.
People jumped to touch the robot, tried to playfully "tease it back," and followed its movements with curiosity, engaging in spontaneous play behaviors.
Participants reported feeling "peaceful," "warm," "charmed," and "touched" - demonstrating the robot's ability to evoke genuine emotional engagement and empathy.
A parent working overseas could remotely control the avatar to play with their child at home. The child might chase or jump to touch the avatar floating in mid-air, sharing a joyful game of tag. Parents can use their "wings" to hug their child, enabling affectionate interactions that go beyond what screen-based communication can offer.
Transform how people connect across distances by embodying a physical form in remote locations. Cuddlefish reshapes how we maintain relationships when physical separation or isolation creates barriers, enabling pilots to be truly present in shared spaces.
The unique movement capabilities and expressive potential make Cuddlefish ideal for interactive performances, installations, and artistic expressions that blend technology with organic, lifelike motion.
The robot's pet-like qualities and ability to evoke warm emotional responses make it suitable for providing comfort and companionship to people who are isolated or in need of social connection.
Interested in learning more about Cuddlefish or exploring collaboration opportunities?