Designing speculative nonhuman-robot scenarios: An artistic approach

Abstract

<ns4:p>In the rapidly evolving field of robotics, a new paradigm is emerging that goes beyond anthropocentric design and embraces the innate ingenuity of the natural world. This article seeks to unveil ecocentric and more-than-human approaches, along with innovative materials, in creating nonhuman robotic scenarios within an artistic framework. Building on the foundation laid by anthropomorphic concepts depicted in science fiction, this article seeks to show cutting-edge experiments and material applications that imagine potential more-than-human scenarios in a robotic context. By highlighting examples from robotics, soft robotics, plant neurobiology, and material research, the article aims to propose an alternative concept to anthropomorphism. It endeavors to offer an overview of cutting-edge scientific efforts, experimental designs, and material explorations, all of which converge toward the realisation of robotic scenarios inspired by the animal and natural kingdom.</ns4:p>