Olfactory puppetry: A method for exploring end-user expectations of olfactory interfaces in the context of social robots

Abstract

Envision a future where robots apologize with the gentle fragrance of flowers or repel with malodor. Integrating olfaction into robots, especially social robots designed for human interaction and communication, offers profound possibilities for enhancing social engagement and interactivity. Addressing this potential, researchers have recently cast a spotlight on the potential of robot olfactory interfaces. However, understanding end users' expectations remains a challenge, given the scarcity of relevant data. In response, we present Olfactory Puppetry, a novel method inspired by stick puppetry, aimed at unraveling the user expectations surrounding olfactory interfaces in the context of social robots. In a qualitative workshop employing Olfactory Puppetry, we explore various user expectations and examine the potential of Olfactory Puppetry as a method for uncovering user needs. Our research findings highlight the method’s advantages in promoting experiential, unpredicted, and elaborate user expectations through the individual and integrated aspects of olfaction and puppetry.