EmoFriends

Principal Investigator:
Prof. WANG Jia Stephen, Professor, School of Design

EmoFriends is a modular toolkit that transforms plush toys into intelligent companion robots. Using patented Emosense technology, it tracks stress levels through touch and delivers AI-driven, personalised, emotion-aware conversations and haptic stimulation. The modular design allows easy integration into any plush toy, making it accessible and customisable for a range of users.

The toolkit features advanced stress tracking, emotion-aware AI conversations, haptic stimulation and modularity for seamless customisation. The intuitively-designed technology is the first to understand emotional states through touch, and is adaptable across various plush toys. In addition, the modular components, made from Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) via injection moulding, ensure durability and scalability for mass production. 

Providing stress management, emotional support and companionship in a comforting, relatable form, EmoFriends tackles the global stress epidemic by offering a unique, accessible tool for mental health support. It improves emotional well-being, fosters trust and user engagement, while its sustainable design enhances its societal and environmental value.