Multisensory Interactions with Biophilic Flying Robots

Doctoral thesis, 2025

The relationship between nature and humanity has evolved throughout history and across technological epochs. This thesis advances the hypothesis that integrating natural characteristics into robot design can enrich human–computer interaction (HCI) by drawing on our deep-rooted familiarity with and affinity for the natural world. To investigate this proposition, I examined close-range interactions with flying robots under different proxemic conditions, employing a mixed-methods approach.

The thesis comprises four experimental studies. Study I examined how overlaying natural sounds—such as birdsong and rainfall—affects the perception of a noisy flying robot (N = 56). Study II investigated potential roles for indoor drones (N = 60), including the conceptualization of a “pet drone”. Study III compared user experiences with a bio-inspired flapping-wing drone and a similarly sized quadcopter (N = 56). Study IV employed design fiction via an experiential dinner theater in which participants (N = 6) engaged with the speculative scenario of eating a biohybrid drone.

Collectively, these studies reveal how nature-inspired design elements can shape perception, usability, and emotional engagement with flying robots. The findings indicate that incorporating natural characteristics into HCI offers intuitive, relatable, and emotionally resonant experiences. However, they also surface potential pitfalls, underscoring the need for comprehensive, context-sensitive design strategies.

This thesis contributes empirical insights into how people respond to nature-inspired flying robots. It argues for moving beyond surface-level biomimicry toward intentional, context-aware integration of natural elements. By treating nature not only as an aesthetic reference but also as a lens for crafting meaningful, embodied interactions, we can develop interactive technologies that resonate more deeply with human experience—particularly in close-range, affective, and everyday settings.