In 2020, Joseph was commissioned to develop a concept for affective drones (now known as care drones). His brief was to develop the practical design of the device, while also developing the fundamental concept of how the device would be used.
The CARE drone is a great example of biomimetic design, harnessing the power of onboard facial and feature recognition to intuitively react to its environment. With grace reminiscent of a real dragonfly, its beautiful form factor captivates as it flaps its wings. From calming users to rendering support and relaying vital information, the Care Drone epitomizes seamless integration of nature-inspired design and cutting-edge technology.
Introducing the CARE Drone: an innovative bio-inspired companion designed to enhance your daily life. With onboard facial and feature recognition, it intuitively responds to your environment, offering support, information, and calmness when needed. Its beautiful dragonfly-like form factor adds a touch of elegance to any setting. Whether it's serving as an interactive alarm clock or providing insights into your well-being, the CARE Drone is your ultimate personal assistant. Embrace the future of personal organization and self-awareness with the ABC Drone by your side. While the technology is still not quite viable for mass production, we believe this vision of drone companions will eventually be commonplace.
The inspiration behind the Care Drone traces back to the pioneering work of the DelFly project, a collaboration between Delft University of Technology and Wageningen University. The DelFly, a fully controllable camera-equipped flapping wing Micro Air Vehicle, epitomizes innovation in autonomous flight systems. With its focus on functionality and autonomy, the project paved the way for smaller and more capable flapping wing MAVs. Notably, the DelFly Micro stands out as the world's smallest controllable flapping wing MAV with an onboard camera, pushing the boundaries of aerial technology. This visionary endeavor, including the contributions of creators and hobbyists, serves as the cornerstone of the Care Drone's journey toward innovative and nature-inspired design.
The CARE Drone's original shell design marries aesthetics with nature-inspired functionality. It was constructed of PLA Aero Material and Foam to minimize weight related power draw. Drawing from insects like fireflies and dragonflies, its hexagonal mesh or lightweight plastic exterior exudes visual allure. Comprising a durable internal layer, the shell ensures resilience against scrapes and impacts, vital for extended use. Unlike replaceable wings, the shell and its components boast enduring durability, embodying the drone's commitment to longevity and reliability.
The latest shell design marks a significant evolution, addressing client feedback while meeting core device requirements. Crafted from lightweight, durable thermoplastics, it offers customizable finishes, from paint to molded patterns, marrying simplicity with functionality. Aerodynamically enhanced and providing ample internal space, this design ensures optimal weight distribution. Inspired by hummingbirds and feminine architecture, its symmetrical form features gentle curves and soft edges, allowing light to caress its surface. Notably, the front face showcases a sleek black glass window housing camera lenses and sensors, while a touch-capacitive button atop enables physical interaction in cellular-deprived environments, distinguishing it from previous version of the design.
