smile bot by we are matik

‘smile-bot’ by we are matika custom application was developed to interface with four cameras mounted inside the smile-bot

much like how the monolith in stanley kubrick’s ‘2001: a space odyssey’ affected an entire species by introducing a new level of consciousness, we are matik’s ‘smile-bot’ was created with a similar objective in mind: to instill a sense of happiness in those around it. curious yet approachable by design, a willing participant inserts his or her face into one of four belly-portals where they encounter a glimpse into the home planet of the ‘smile-bot’. as the contours of a smile are very unique, a ‘smile-counter’ collects different facial expressions. as each participant inserts their face and grins, one by one, each smile-bot face changes colors from their default sad blue to another ‘happier’ color as well as triggering a sonic ‘singing-like’ harmonization. if four participants smile at the same time, the ‘ultra-smile mode’ is achieved which triggers lights, sound effects and the appearance of a rainbow within the home planet inside the bot.

‘smile-bot’ was created with the intention of its objective (collecting smiles) to be achieved with little explanation which led to the design choices being made. for instance, opting for a naked-wood shell as opposed to metal was a conscious effort to make the installation more approachable. quirky sound-effects and interactive features as well as the natural occurrence of looking at other people’s faces from within the bot add a quirky, awkwardness that create an environment where participants can’t help but put on a happy face.

an array of color changing RGB LEDs react to each participant’s smile

smile-botvideo courtesy of we are matik

smile!

a motorized rainbow appears after four participants smile at the same time.

the cameras monitors participant’s faces with facial recognition technology and a custom ‘smile detecting algorithm.’

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