PenguBuddy

PenguBuddy is an interactive health data tracking system designed to enhance the well-being of penguins while engaging keepers and visitors. The system integrates an underwater robot and a mobile app to monitor and analyze penguin behavior and health metrics in real time. Developed in collaboration with Georgia Aquarium and Georgia Tech’s Animal-Computer Interaction (ACI) Lab, the project aims to bridge technology and animal care, providing valuable insights for researchers and caretakers while creating an interactive educational experience for visitors.

Zoo penguins often experience mood and behavior changes due to environmental and habitual shifts, which can lead to depression, reduced appetite, and decreased activity. Through field research, we discovered that keepers use low-tech enrichment toys to support penguins’ mental well-being and primarily monitor their health through daily observations or annual checkups. However, these methods lack real-time tracking for individual penguins.

The design solution draws inspiration from penguins' natural play behaviors and environmental enrichment strategies. By leveraging interactive robotic technology, we created a system that not only tracks penguin activity data but also fosters engaging interactions between penguins and humans.

A significant innovation is designing an underwater robot that serves as both an interactive toy for penguins and a data collection tool for keepers. By encouraging penguins to swim, the robot helps prevent physical and mental health issues while acting as a bridge for visitor-penguin interaction. Additionally, it captures acoustic data and video footage to support health monitoring and research.

We also designed a companion mobile app to enhance the visitor experience and foster empathy for penguins. The app allows visitors to naturally control the underwater robot, creating a fun and immersive interaction. It also features educational content and monetization options, enabling visitors to learn more about penguins beyond playtime, purchase unique penguin-themed merchandise, and donate to conservation efforts.

PenguBuddy significantly improves the quality of life for zoo penguins while offering visitors a unique and meaningful experience. By addressing both ethical and logistical challenges in animal care, this innovative solution has the potential to drive positive social impact in wildlife conservation and public engagement.