Snuggling Robot at Different Positions Based on User's Facial Expressions

This study proposes a pet robot designed to enhance emotional interaction with users by adapting its behavior based on the recognition of facial expressions. The proposed system enables the robot to interpret a user's smile as an invitation to approach directly, while a sad expression prompts it to move closer in a comforting manner. Interaction results indicated that the robot's movement away from the user elicited feelings of loneliness and discomfort, whereas movements toward the user, alongside gentle snuggling and rotational gestures, fostered a sense of familiarity and reassurance.