FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PenguBuddy: Award-Winning Interactive Health Tracking System for Penguins and Zoo Visitors

PenguBuddy, created by Yuwei Li and a multidisciplinary design team, is transforming the way zoos care for penguins and engage visitors. Developed between January 2023 and February 2024 at the Georgia Institute of Technology ACI Lab in Atlanta, PenguBuddy addresses the challenge of monitoring penguin health while providing an enriching, interactive experience for zoo guests. The system features an underwater robot that acts as both a playful companion for penguins and a sophisticated data collection tool for keepers.

Unlike traditional animal monitoring systems, PenguBuddy allows visitors to control the robot via a mobile app, fostering real-time, playful interactions with penguins. The robot collects visual and acoustic data, enabling keepers to monitor individual penguin behavior and health more effectively. The companion app enhances the visitor experience by offering educational content, conservation information, and opportunities to support penguin welfare through donations and personalized gifts.

The project's design was informed by extensive research, including field studies, interviews with keepers and visitors, and prototype testing. Key challenges addressed included ensuring the robot's safety and durability in aquatic environments, developing ethical and scientifically informed movement patterns, and creating an intuitive, gamified app interface. The result is a system that not only improves animal welfare but also transforms visitors from passive observers into active participants in conservation efforts.

PenguBuddy's innovative blend of technology, animal care, and public engagement was recognized with the Iron A' Social Design Award 2025, honoring its practical, user-centered approach and positive impact on both penguin welfare and the zoo-going public.

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