Towards Designing Spatial Robots that are Architecturally Motivated

Abstract: While robots are increasingly integrated into the built environment, little is known how their qualities can meaningfully influence our spaces to facilitate enjoyable and agreeable interaction, rather than robotic settings that are driven by functional goals. Motivated by the premise that future robots should be aware of architectural sensitivities, we developed a set of exploratory studies that combine methods from both architectural and interaction design. While we empirically discovered that dynamically moving spatial elements, which we coin as spatial robots, can indeed create unique life-sized affordances that encourage or resist human activities, we also encountered many unforeseen design challenges originated from how ordinary users and experts perceived spatial robots. This discussion thus could inform similar design studies in the areas of human-building architecture (HBI) or responsive and interactive architecture.

• The paper demonstrates that integrating robotics with architectural principles can transform built environments to boost human interaction and well-being.
• The study employs exploratory research with mixed methodologies from architecture and interaction design across varied real-world contexts.
• The research identifies challenges such as user apprehension and interdisciplinary communication, underscoring the need for collaborative design.

Introduction

The paper scrutinizes the intersection of robotics and architecture, focusing on the concept of spatial robots—dynamic architectural elements that can interact with their environment and inhabitants. It asserts that future robots should be integrated with a keen understanding of architectural principles to forge spaces which are not only functional but also enhance occupants' interactions and well-being.

Design Process

During the investigation, the authors conducted a series of exploratory studies which demonstrated that moving elements within a built environment, such as walls or curtains, can directly influence human activity and experience. These studies were deployed across varied contexts and involved ordinary people to capture a breadth of interactions with spatial robots. The process blended methodologies from both architectural and interaction design fields, striving for designs that both fit into the architectural context and resonated with user expectations.

Research Challenges

Through their research, the authors uncovered several key challenges in the perception and design of spatial robots. Ordinary users, for example, appeared to have difficulty understanding the necessity of such robots, expressing concerns over feasibility, safety, and privacy within their living spaces. Meanwhile, experts in architecture and design grappled with reconciling terminologies and methodologies across disciplines, and in handling the materiality aspect of spatial robots—considering the diversity of spatial contexts and expressions.

Conclusion

The paper concludes that spatial robots have significant potential to transform our living spaces in ways that go beyond mere functionality to positively influence health, well-being, and quality of life. However, realising this potential requires a nuanced approach that appreciates both architectural sensitivity and the interactive nature of these systems. This calls for collaborative efforts and shared understanding between architects, interaction designers, and roboticists to design spatial robots that are genuinely attuned to architectural aesthetics and human needs.