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Yuwei Li's Animal Health Tracking System presents a comprehensive mobile application interface ecosystem distributed across multiple smartphone screens arranged in an isometric floating composition ag
Yuwei Li's Pengu Buddy Animal Health Tracking System presents a sophisticated compositional architecture grounded in asymmetrical balance and dynamic spatial layering, wherein the primary focal point
Yuwei Li's Animal Health Tracking System establishes its visual presence through a carefully orchestrated composition that integrates three-dimensional rendered elements with typographic information a
Yuwei Li's Pengu Buddy Animal Health Tracking System presents a dual-screen mobile interface composition anchored in contemporary digital design methodology, featuring two smartphone devices positione
Yuwei Li's Pengu Buddy Animal Health Tracking System presents a triadic composition of three contemporary smartphones arranged in an overlapping cascade from left to right against a pristine, high-key

Georgia Aquarium

Iron Social Design · 2025

Pengu Buddy Animal Health Tracking System

by Here Design Studio

  • A' Design Award 2025 Iron Winner in Social Design
  • Awarded April 15, 2025
  • CLIENT: Georgia Aquarium
  • Estimated Number of Design Views: 34,659
  • Verification code 96043CF0A0 · Verify this award
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About Pengu Buddy Animal Health Tracking System

Pengu Buddy is an animal health tracking system designed for a penguin habitat. The system combines an underwater robot with a mobile application. The robot serves as a toy for penguins and encourages activity through games that visitors control from the application. During play, the robot collects visual and acoustic data and sends the data to a dashboard used by keepers for health monitoring. The application also offers educational content about penguins and options to support conservation through donations and gifts.

Yuwei Li's Pengu Buddy Animal Health Tracking System represents a thoughtfully conceived digital platform addressing the intersection of wildlife conservation engagement, educational outreach, and accessible charitable participation through mobile technology. Positioned within the expanding domain of social impact design and conservation technology, this work demonstrates how contemporary user experience design methodologies can be marshaled to lower barriers to conservation involvement, particularly for audiences who may feel disconnected from environmental causes or uncertain about meaningful contribution pathways. The interface architecture reveals sophisticated understanding of progressive disclosure principles and user journey orchestration, guiding participants from initial encounter through educational engagement to concrete action opportunities including symbolic adoption, direct donation, and knowledge acquisition about penguin species, habitats, and conservation challenges. The chromatic strategy proves particularly accomplished, deploying a carefully calibrated palette of oceanic blues that establish immediate thematic association with marine environments while maintaining the clarity and legibility essential to functional interface design; the cool cerulean foundation creates atmospheric unity across disparate screen functions, while strategic deployment of warmer blue accents for primary actions creates clear visual hierarchy guiding user attention toward conversion points without resorting to aggressive contrast or disruptive color intrusion. The penguin mascot character demonstrates notable success in balancing appeal across age demographics—sufficiently stylized to read as friendly and approachable without descending into juvenile treatment that might alienate adult users, rendered with soft three-dimensional modeling that suggests tactile warmth while maintaining the clean aesthetic appropriate to contemporary digital products. The compositional presentation itself, arranging multiple interface states in floating isometric constellation, serves dual documentary and promotional functions: providing comprehensive view of user journey scope and feature breadth while creating visually dynamic artifact suitable for portfolio presentation and design communication contexts. Notable passages of particular accomplishment include the tutorial screen's gestural instruction overlay, which elegantly solves the perennial challenge of teaching swipe interactions through semi-transparent directional cues; the donation amount selection interface, which offers both preset increments and custom input while maintaining visual simplicity; and the characteristic information cards, which package educational content about penguin size, appearance, feathers, and vocalizations in scannable, engaging modules that reward curiosity without overwhelming users. The work appears to explore how digital platforms can transform abstract conservation concerns into concrete, emotionally resonant experiences that feel personally meaningful rather than obligatory, how mascot-driven narrative can serve as accessible entry point to complex environmental topics, and how thoughtfully designed user experiences can convert passive concern into active participation. One might observe how the interface balances educational mission with functional clarity, never allowing informational density to compromise navigational transparency, and how the overall design language projects competence and trustworthiness while maintaining warmth and approachability—a delicate tonal balance essential to platforms requesting financial contribution. As mobile applications increasingly serve as primary interface between institutions and public constituencies, particularly for younger demographics whose civic and charitable engagement occurs predominantly through digital channels, designs such as this suggest possibilities for conservation organizations, aquariums, wildlife sanctuaries, and environmental advocacy groups to cultivate sustained engagement beyond single-visit experiences, extending institutional reach and impact through persistent digital presence that continues education, enables ongoing support, and nurtures long-term connection to conservation missions.

Press Kit

Unique Properties
PenguBuddy is an interactive health data tracking system combining technology and wildlife care. It features an underwater robot that acts as both a playful toy for penguins and a data collection tool for keepers. The companion mobile app lets visitors control the robot, enjoy immersive interactions, access educational content, and support conservation through donations and gifts. This innovative solution drives positive social impact in wildlife conservation and public engagement.
Dimensions & Packaging
The mobile app interface was designed with iOS guidelines. The underwater robot dimensions: Width 640 mm x Depth 120 mm x Height 500 mm
Tags
Animal Computer Interaction, Health Monitoring, Interactive Robot, Penguin Conservation, Education, Visitor Engagement, Mobile App
Production Technology
We used Figma and Adobe After Effects to design UI interfaces and also leveraged Rhino to create and render the underwater robot 3D model. Beyond that, we also tested some sensor hardware in the Georgia Institute of Technology ACI Lab.
Design Challenge
The central design challenge involved harmonizing penguin welfare with captivating visitor interaction, navigating obstacles such as robot durability, online data processing, and ethical animal engagement. Solutions prioritized two key areas: meticulous material testing and ethical design, ensuring robot safety and scientifically informed movement patterns for responsible monitoring. And user-centric interaction design, featuring an intuitive mobile application with gamification and educational content to transform visitors from passive observers to active participants in penguin welfare.
The first is the rigorous material testing and ethical design. The underwater robot materials were extensively tested for safety and durability. The movement patterns were carefully designed to mimic animals in the African penguin colony and were informed by research scientists to guarantee ethical monitoring practices.

On the other hand, we conducted user-centric interaction design. The mobile application prioritized intuitive controls, catering to a diverse user base. Gamification and educational content were integrated to foster active, empathetic engagement, transitioning visitors from passive observers to active participants in penguin welfare.
Project Duration
The project started in January 2023 and completed concept phase on February 2024 in Atlanta.
Operation Flow
This project connects penguins, visitors, and keepers through an interactive system. Visitors control the robot via the app, creating playful interactions with penguins. The robot collects visual and acoustic data about penguins' activity and sends it to the keeper's dashboard for health monitoring. The app further enriches the visitor experience through educational content and conservation content, facilitating a meaningful connection between human interaction and scientific observation.
Research
This research involved multiple research approaches, including field study, 30 hours of observation, 8 interviews with keepers and visitors, and prototype testing with 12 participants. Observation helped us understand interactions between visitors, keepers, and penguins. Interviews revealed pain points and expectations. We explored existing health tracking technologies and developed core design concepts using environment enrichment, robot interaction, and AI data insights. User feedback from prototype testing guided our design improvements.
Inspiration
Zoo animals, including penguins, often experience mood and behavior changes due to environmental and habitual shifts, leading to depression, reduced appetite, and decreased activity. However, the existing technology lacks effective data tracking for individual penguins.

The design solution draws inspiration from penguins' natural play behaviors and environmental enrichment strategies. By leveraging interactive robotic technology, we created a system that tracks penguin activity data and fosters engaging interactions between penguins and humans.
Image Credits
Melody Moore Jackson, Georgia Tech ACI Lab
Patents
N/A

Colors of Pengu Buddy Animal Health Tracking System

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UX Design for Social Impact and Conservation Technology

We create interactive systems that bridge technology and social good. Our expertise spans user research, interface design, and innovative solutions for wildlife conservation, education, and public engagement. From concept to implementation, we transform complex challenges into intuitive experiences.

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Design Interview about Pengu Buddy Animal Health Tracking System

My most important design principle is: Design with intent, not assumption. Every decision—visual, functional, or strategic—should be grounded in purpose and empathy, not personal preference or guesswork. I believe good design solves real problems and respects the context of its users.

The main focus of this work was to explore how technology can facilitate more empathetic and meaningful interactions between humans and animals. Building on what I learned from designing PenguBuddy, I wanted to push the boundaries of ACI—not just in functionality, but in emotional connection and mutual understanding.

My goal was to create a design that respects both species’ needs, supports animal welfare, and rethinks what “interaction” means beyond the human context. Ultimately, it’s about contributing to a future where technology helps foster coexistence—rather than control—between people and animals.

My future plans involve continuing to design for impact—especially in areas where technology, accessibility, and social equity intersect. I’m particularly interested in exploring how AI and inclusive design can shape more ethical, meaningful digital experiences. What’s next for me is growing as both a designer and a design advocate—taking on more cross-functional challenges, mentoring others, and contributing to work that not only solves problems, but also empowers underrepresented voices. I also hope to bring more of my ideas into public platforms—through speaking, writing, or design awards—to spark conversations that move our industry forward.

About 6 months.

This concept was designed in collaboration with the ACI Lab at Georgia Tech, as part of a commissioned project from the Georgia Aquarium. The goal was to explore how interactive technologies could support animal enrichment and public education through meaningful human-animal interaction.

While the project was commissioned, the inspiration came from our shared mission—to enhance animal welfare through thoughtful, research-driven design. It was an opportunity to apply ACI principles in a real-world setting, bridging academic research with tangible impact.

No plans at this time

What made me design this particular type of work was my interest in how technology can support more ethical and empathetic relationships between humans and animals. When the Georgia Aquarium commissioned this project through the ACI Lab at Georgia Tech, it aligned perfectly with my passion for animal-computer interaction and mission-driven design.

I was inspired by the opportunity to move beyond traditional interfaces and explore how design can enrich the lives of non-human users—while also educating and engaging the public in more meaningful ways.

One of my favorite designs is Stanford University's self-navigating smart cane—a $400 assistive device that integrates AI and robotics to enhance mobility for individuals with visual impairments.

visual impairments.

This project exemplifies the potential of AI-driven design to create affordable, user-centered solutions that significantly improve quality of life. It inspires me to explore how emerging technologies can be harnessed to develop intuitive, inclusive products that address real-world challenges.

The name PenguBuddy was chosen to emphasize the role of the robot as a companion—not a toy—for both penguins and humans. We wanted to highlight the idea of partnership, mutual respect, and emotional connection, rather than positioning the robot as a passive entertainment device.

"Pengu" references the penguin species we designed for, while "Buddy" reflects the robot’s function as a supportive presence—helping enrich the animal’s environment and facilitating deeper engagement with humans. It’s a name that’s friendly, approachable, and aligned with our mission of promoting empathy through design.

Figma, Rhino, Adobe CC.

The most unique aspect of PenguBuddy is that it was intentionally designed not just for humans, but also for animals—specifically, penguins. Most interactive technologies focus solely on human needs, but this project considers both species as equal stakeholders in the design process.

We applied principles from Animal-Computer Interaction (ACI) to ensure that the robot supports the penguins’ behavioral enrichment, while also enabling meaningful engagement for human visitors and caretakers. This dual-user approach challenges traditional design boundaries and highlights how technology can foster empathy, welfare, and coexistence.

We collaborated closely with researchers and professors from the ACI Lab at Georgia Tech, who brought deep expertise in Animal-Computer Interaction and human-animal behavior. Their guidance helped shape the ethical and technical foundation of the design.

We also conducted interviews and field research with penguin caretakers and subject-matter experts at the Georgia Aquarium. Their firsthand knowledge of animal needs, behaviors, and enrichment practices was essential in creating a solution that genuinely served both the animals and the people who care for them.

In this design, technology—particularly robotics—plays a supportive, carefully balanced role. We intentionally used technological components in a way that feels natural and non-intrusive to the penguins, prioritizing their well-being over novelty.

Our goal was to explore innovation without disrupting the animals' natural behaviors. The robot was designed to be engaging, but not overstimulating—to enrich, not interfere. This approach reflects our belief that technology in ACI should be ethical, respectful, and always grounded in the needs of its non-human users.

Our design was strongly guided by data from qualitative research, direct observation, and usability testing. We conducted multiple interviews with animal behavior experts and penguin caretakers at the Georgia Aquarium to gain deep insights into the penguins’ daily routines, preferences, and stress triggers.

We also spent time on-site conducting field observations to better understand the animals' interactions with their environment. These sessions helped us identify design opportunities that would support enrichment without interference.

Additionally, we ran iterative usability tests—with both the caretakers and the penguins—to evaluate the robot’s interaction patterns, movement, and physical presence. These tests allowed us to fine-tune the design to ensure it was safe, engaging, and intuitive for both human and non-human users.

One of the biggest challenges we faced was designing for an interaction context that had very few precedents. Since Animal-Computer Interaction—especially involving physical robots for penguins—is still an emerging field, we couldn’t rely on existing patterns or case studies.

We had to explore and define interaction models from the ground up, experimenting with different robot forms, behaviors, and materials. A major focus was ensuring that the robot was durable enough to withstand pecking or playful attacks from the penguins, without causing harm or fear.

Balancing innovation, safety, and animal-friendly design required extensive prototyping, testing, and iteration. It was both a creative and ethical challenge—but one that made the project especially meaningful.

We decided to submit this design to an international competition because we believe its mission—bridging technology, animal welfare, and inclusive interaction—deserves a wider platform and deeper public dialogue. Projects like PenguBuddy are still rare, and sharing it globally helps spark new conversations around ethical design beyond humans.

Our hope was to raise awareness, not just for the project itself, but for the broader potential of Animal-Computer Interaction and the role design can play in supporting interspecies empathy. Recognition from an international audience helps validate this emerging field and encourages more designers to think beyond conventional boundaries.

One of the biggest things I learned during this project was the value of continuously questioning and refining my own ideas. Designing for both animals and humans pushed me to step outside of familiar frameworks and rethink what "good interaction" really means.

It was both challenging and rewarding to let go of early assumptions and iterate through uncertainty. This experience strengthened my ability to balance creativity with humility—and taught me that meaningful design often comes from embracing ambiguity and being willing to start over.

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