Robotics Technology Center

Is My Robot Happy To See Me?

Emotions such as happiness and affection can only be expressed by humans and most living creatures like the animals. Except for this little buddy here named Feelix, which grows emotionally attached to its human friend.

Researchers from Hertfordshire's, led by Dr. Lola Cañamero is coordinating with a European project that develops prototypes for robots that are capable of adapting to its environment and become emotionally attached to their human companions. These robots are designed to relate to humans and perform tasks autonomously.

The project, FEELIX GROWING (FEEL, Interact, eXpress) is also the name of the robots that are capable of interacting with humans in everyday environments, and will learn and develop emotionally, socially and cognitively in accordance with the needs and personalities of the individuals with which they associate.

As Dr. Lola Cañamero said “If robots are to be truly integrated in humans’ everyday lives as companions or carers, they cannot be just taken off the shelf and put into a real-life setting, they need to live and grow interacting with humans, to adapt to their environment.” Making them an indispensable member of the society.