Robuddy 자율 안내견 by Ufuk Ogul Dulgeroglu is a highly esteemed winner of the very prestigious 2024 A' Design Award 금상 in 로봇공학, 오토마톤 및 자동화 디자인 Competition Category.

금로봇공학· 2024

Robuddy 자율 안내견

by Ufuk Ogul Dulgeroglu

Client: Aselsan

A' Design Award 금상 Winner in 로봇공학 Category

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Verified Award Winner

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View at A' Design Award Press Release Award Badge

Colors

The Design

About Robuddy 자율 안내견

Robuddy는 시각 또는 청각 장애를 가진 분들에게 힘을 실어주고자 하는 사명에서 영감을 받은 자율 로봇 안내견입니다. 전통적인 안내견의 심오한 영향력을 포용하며, 이 프로젝트는 첨단 기술과 공감을 융합하여 기능적 지원뿐만 아니라 정서적 지원까지 제공합니다. 혁신적인 내비게이션과 커뮤니케이션 시스템을 통해 포용성과 독립성이 융합되는 미래를 그려내며, 보조 기기의 새로운 지평을 열어갑니다.

The Recognition

About the A' Design Award 금상

Robuddy 자율 안내견, 이 작품은 A' Design Award 금상 수상작으로, 일류의 경이롭고 뛰어난 디자인에 수여되는 극히 권위 있는 인정입니다. 금상 수상작은 대단히 혁신적이고 선견지명이 있으며 눈부시게 빛나는 작품으로, 디자이너의 천재성, 지혜, 기량을 반영합니다. Robuddy 자율 안내견, 이 작품은 가장 높이 평가받는 트렌드 선도적이고 기념비적인 발명품으로서 전례 없는 가치를 제공할 것으로 기대됩니다. 이 금상 수상 디자인은 예술, 과학, 디자인, 기술의 경계를 넓히는 장관을 이루는 존경받는 프로젝트입니다. Robuddy 자율 안내견, 이 작품은 강렬한 욕망을 불러일으키고 열정을 자아내며 창의성을 북돋우고 매료합니다.

Behind the Design

Press Kit

Credits, team members and technical details provided by the designer.

Unique Properties: Robuddy is an autonomous robot guide dog,inspired by a mission to empower those with visual or auditory impairments. Embracing the profound impact of traditional guide dogs, the project melds advanced technology with empathy to provide not only functional assistance but also emotional support. Through innovative navigation and communication systems, this project envisions a future where inclusivity and independence converge, redefining the landscape of assistive devices.
Dimensions & Packaging: Width 840 mm x Depth 440 mm x Height 597 mm
Tags: Autonomous, Robotics, Guide Dog, Assistive Technology, Accessibility Innovation
Production Technology: The main structure which carries main components and batteries is made from lightweight titanium. The outer shell's production methods consists of additive manufacturing as well as plastic molding proccesses. Plastics such as polycarbonate are used to achieve semi-transparency in parts where integrated screens, sensors and cameras are placed.
Design Challenge: The social impact side of things was to reduce any risk of animal abuse while training. A robot guide dog won't experience pain or stress, making it less susceptible to abusive practices. This can be especially relevant in situations where sadly, trainers might resort to harsh methods.
The challenge in the design process was to create a robot guide dog within real dog dimensions. Balancing intricate technology, sensors, and maintaining a compact size demanded meticulous engineering.
Inspiration: Inspired by the loyalty and assistance of real guide dogs, Robuddy seeks to replicate their impact through innovative technology. Merging functionality with emotional support, Robuddy aims to redefine accessibility for individuals with visual or auditory impairments. Addressing a common challenge faced by traditional guide dogs, Robuddy ensures unwavering focus and reliability, free from distractions that may hinder real dogs.
Project Duration: The projects first development started in 2021 in Ankara, and for this version, it finished in December 2023.
Operation Flow: Users control it through a user-friendly smartphone app or simple gestures. For deaf users, information appears on built-in screens and also the smartphone app, while blind users receive guidance through Bluetooth earphones and movement feedback from the collar. It mimics real dog behavior, responding to commands and offering companionship, making it an intuitive and accessible assistive companion for those with visual or auditory impairments. Integrated screens on both the body and face areas are used to also communicate with people around if needed. The tail acts as a status light to show Robuddy's status to people nearby.
Team Members: Designer : Ufuk Oğul Dülgeroğlu

Team Members : Nurullah Taşkıran, Dilan Eryiğit, Hamdi Hekimoğlu, Dilay Buse Kökoğlu, Emre Can Özgür

Supervisor : Özgür Ülvan
Image Credits: Ufuk Oğul Dülgeroğlu, 2023.