SoftEdibo
SoftEdIBO aims to pioneer new soft robots to foster inclusion in mixed-ability groups. The project will examine the impact on inclusion of shared, personal, and separate surfaces using three soft robots, Touchibo Turtle, Tree, and Swarm. Children will be playing doctors! They “diagnose” and “treat” a soft robot patient by coordinating touch zones, pressure and rhythm. The robot responds with dynamic skin behaviours as feedback.
SoftEdIBO - Soft Robots for Inclusive Education
explores how soft, touch-responsive robots can foster inclusion among children of different abilities and backgrounds in mainstream classrooms. While group work can support social participation and collaboration, children who are shy, have disabilities, or come from migrant backgrounds often remain excluded from group interactions. Building on research showing that social robots can balance participation and create shared experiences, SoftEdIBO investigates how touch-based interactions can promote inclusion in mixed-ability groups. The project develops and studies three soft robotic systems—Touchibo Turtle, Tree, and Swarm—that offer shared, personal, and separate touch surfaces. By combining advanced tactile sensing, soft pneumatic actuation, and real-time models of group touch dynamics, the robots will adapt their behaviors to encourage participation, joint attention, and social connection. The project will contribute new knowledge on touch-mediated inclusion, innovative soft robotic designs, and practical guidelines for creating inclusive robotic technologies for children.
Project 2024.15729.PEX supported by FCT