Smarm with me
Smarm with Me is part of the “I Like Robots and Robots Like Me” series by Professor Louis-Philippe Demers . It explores the dynamics between humans and machines, challenging conventional expectations of robot behavior and human-centric perspectives. This project sets the stage for encounters between unorthodox, ‘wild’ machines and human participants, aiming to rethink human-robot interactions. By leveraging the concept of ‘radical otherness’ and the innate ‘humanness’ attributed to animals, it probes into the complexities of perceiving animal-like machines both as objects for anthropomorphic connection and symbols of human dominance. This exploration is enriched by the idea of animals as canvases for projecting any human thought, emotion, or action, a notion inspired by Baker (2001), to delve into the intricate interplay of identification and separation in the realm of human-robot relationships.
Catergory
Experiences | Interactives
Year
2018
Materials
3D printed fiberglass, stainless steel hardware, nylon hardware, carbon fiber, electronics
Client
Professor Louis-Philippe Demers
Close up details
Design concept
Smarm with Me is designed as a darkened environment experience, where 4-8 drones fly around the audience, aiming to simulate a wild encounter. To ensure audience safety from the drones’ rotating blades, each drone is equipped with a gimbal cage. This cage not only minimizes the impact in case of collisions with audience members but also shields the drones from damage upon contact. The dual purpose of the gimbal cage enhances the experience by maintaining the thrill of close encounters while ensuring the well-being of both the audience and the drones.
The selection of materials for this project prioritizes modularity, ensuring that any damaged part can be easily replaced, while also safeguarding the machine itself from damage during exhibitions. Above all, these materials are chosen with the audience’s safety as the foremost concern. For example, the cage of the flying machine is crafted from stainless spring steel, adding a degree of flexibility that prevents deformation upon impact with walls or audience members. This flexibility serves as a protective buffer, absorbing the force of collisions.
