SWIRL is a shape-changing non-humanoid social robot, designed to
work as a helping hand to maintain mental tools and good habits,
for adults, who have earlier been in therapy because of a mental
illness such as stress, anxiety, or depression, in order to
prevent relapse. The concept behind SWIRL is that it should be
provided by public healthcare institutions, lent to users, and
brought into their homes for a limited period.
SWIRL
will be positioned in the user's home at eye level, integrated
into their daily life. Once a day, when the user is nearby, SWIRL
initiates a conversation guiding the user through various mental
tools, questions, and exercises.
SWIRL offers four
modes of interaction, communicating through changes in its shape
and light intensity. The design of SWIRL, including its material,
appearance, and movements, is made be perceived as organic and
calming to the user. SWIRL is constructed from tyvek, a
waterproof, durable, and noiseless material, and is actuated by a
DC motor driving a 3D-printed mechanism.
Easing In
