In-Car Companion Robot
The Beginning
The project began with a request to develop an in-car companion inspired by existing products. Rather than repeating conventional animated facial features, the initial exploration introduced a soft, glowing character that expressed emotions through light, form, and movement.
The Vision
The concept evolved into a new idea: instead of placing a separate character on the dashboard, the device could become an emotional expression of the car itself. For example, acceleration could trigger excitement, giving the vehicle a recognizable personality. The client responded positively, and the concept progressed into further design exploration.
A New Direction
After further exploration, the client decided not to pursue the vehicle-expression concept due to considerations related to its existing sales channels and product plans. The project then shifted toward a standalone in-car companion robot, requiring a fresh approach to product form and interaction design.
Visual Expression & Interaction
To define the robot's character, the design explored three visual expression styles: futuristic graphics, character-like facial expressions, and pixel-based animation. Interaction planning also covered emotional responses to user proximity, voice activation, acceleration, braking, and turning.
Personalized Accessories
Beyond the robot itself, the design included an interchangeable robotic hand and a collection of themed expression signs. Different accessory combinations allowed the character to communicate a broader range of personalities and visual expressions.
Design Outcome
The project delivered the product's industrial design, 3D design files, CMF direction, screen UI, emotional interaction planning, and accessory designs. The final design was approved by the client, who subsequently advanced the product into tooling development.
Design Participation
- Deep Involvement
- Collaborative Support
- Not Involved
- Research
- Strategy
- Concept
- Design
- CMF
- Engineering
- Production