Researchers at the University of Tsukuba have developed a robotic system that mimics a behavior known as bunting, in which animals, particularly cats, rub their heads against objects or people. This behavior, often seen as an expression of affection, has been associated with therapeutic effects on humans.
The robot was designed with a flexible neck mechanism capable of adjusting stiffness through wire tension. To evaluate its effectiveness, the research team conducted experiments with 22 university students, testing three different neck stiffness settings: low, high, and variable. During the trials, each participant experienced a 40-second session of the robot’s bunting motion. The participants’ mood changes were measured using a temporary mood scale questionnaire before and after the interaction.
The study found that interacting with the robot significantly reduced tension levels among participants. While the variable stiffness setting appeared to offer the most pronounced reduction in tension, the differences between the three settings were not statistically significant. Some participants, however, noted the perceived effectiveness of the variable stiffness setting, indicating its potential value in enhancing the interaction experience. The researchers suggest that these findings could inform the design of robots aimed at improving human well-being, with applications in stress relief and emotional support.