Design choices in the development of a robotic head: Human-likeness, Form and Colours

The design of what a robot could look like is a matter of growing importance. Variations of style, size, shape and colour open endless design possibilities. It is important to create a look that poses no visual uncanny valley effects on the human user and that is appropriate to potentially serve in different job areas in human society. In this paper we want to share the methods applied in the design of a new head for the humanoid robot KOBIAN-R. Our creation process is similar to that of the product design process taking into account the psychology of shape, colour and functionality to name a few. Following the creative process we conducted some surveys to assess our new design. Feedback data from participants from a diverse age range and cultural backgrounds are a precious input towards the future development of this robotic head.