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Palmo
A smart desktop robot to help teenagers manage phone distractions.
What is it?
Palmo is a smart desktop robot designed to help teenagers manage distractions caused by their mobile phones during study time. Unlike other solutions, Palmo doesn't block access to the phone; instead, it encourages the development of self-regulation. Once the student sits down at the desk to begin their homework, they place their phone on Palmo’s surface. The robot detects the start of the session and responds with a gentle up-and-down motion, like a quiet bow, that marks the beginning of focused time and symbolizes a contract between the student and the robot. From that moment, as long as the phone remains in place, Palmo stays calm, still, and present.
However, when the student reaches out toward the device, the distance sensor detects the motion, and Palmo begins to gently vibrate. If the student chooses to take the phone, the light sensor identifies its absence, and Palmo dramatically collapses downward. This dramatic motion is intended to create a sense of emotional impact, as if Palmo has been hurt, highlighting the moment of decision and making the student reflect on their choice.
Project Info
- Students: Alin Karat, Danielle Levy, May Primo, Michal Shapira, Noam Zuaretz
- Year: 2025
- Lecturer: Dr. Noa Morag
- Teaching Assistant: Ofir Sadka
- Industrial Designer: Aviad Kelner
How does it work?
Palmo has two infrared distance sensors to detect user interaction: one on the front of the robot and another on the phone platform itself. When the front-facing sensor detects movement nearby (such as a hand reaching toward the phone), the vibration mechanism activates and triggers a short side-to-side shaking motion via the motors. When the phone is removed from the platform, the light sensor registers a change in brightness. In response, the motors coordinate a combined downward movement, causing Palmo to collapse in a dramatic gesture.