Living with robots with Zaven Paré

02/17/2024

In science fiction, robots are often portrayed as friends or coworkers, interacting with humans and reproducing emotions as part of everyday life. Known as friendly robots, designed to interact with humans in a friendly, safe, and collaborative manner, they are the theme of the exhibition “Living with robots”, which is scheduled to take place from November 14, 2023 to March 31, 2024, on the ground floor of Japan House São Paulo. In addition to showcasing specific aspects of the development of Japanese robots, the exhibition offers visitors an opportunity to reflect on what it is like to live with them in a friendly way, as well as on how they are incorporated into Japanese daily life today. Future cohabitation In order to demystify and familiarize exhibition-goers with the possibility of future cohabitation with such elements, the exhibition features 11 robots divided into four categories: Coworkers, companions, communicators, and those who help humans. “These robots already exist and are used in practice. They are not fiction, used to increase efficiency or even prototypes in development,” says curator Zaven Paré, who is a researcher in the technology and robotics segment. More than just robots Rather than just communication devices, the exhibition highlights specimens that exist for company, with an emphasis on non-verbal communication, including emotional expressions. Designed with artificial intelligence and sophisticated sensors, which allow them to understand and respond to human needs and expressions intuitively, friendly robots have been used in stores, schools, hospitals, nursing homes, and even in everyday life at homes, becoming real personal assistants or even family members. “I believe that HAL will get a lot of attention, especially from adults. Just by looking at the exoskeleton you can create an instinctive connection, as people envision themselves aging - and this robot can provide important support in the future of each individual,” says Paré.