High tech cognitive and acoustic enrichment for captive elephants

Abstract

This paper investigates the potential for using technology to support the development of sensory and cognitive enrichment activities for captive elephants. It explores the usefulness of applying conceptual frameworks from interaction design and game design to the problem of developing species-specific smart toys that promote natural behaviours and provide stimulation. We adopted a Research through Design approach, and describe how scientific inquiry supported our design process, while the creation of artefacts guided our investigations into possible future solutions. Our fieldwork resulted in the development of an interactive prototype of an acoustic toy that elephants are able to control using interface elements constructed from a range of natural materials.

Seven Years after the Manifesto: Literature Review and Research Directions for Technologies in Animal Computer Interaction

“…In ACI, exploration has been conducted with tangible and physical objects such as pulling devices [43,64], buttons [21,30] (Figure 3), digitally augmented toys such as tree trunks and pulleys [55,118] and plastic balls [62], and with robots [56,57]. Robinson et al [43] created a pulley system for a medical assistant dog to call for help using a tug toy as an interaction mechanism, as this is a familiar way of interaction for a dog.…”

“…Vibrotactiles however, are not constrained to animals using wearable haptics. French et al [55] developed vibrotactile buttons made of different materials for elephants. These interactive devices were aimed towards triggering elephants' curiosity to explore the device based on the haptic feedback they received when approaching the material with their trunks.…”

Animals Make Music: A Look at Non-Human Musical Expression

“…In the context of ACI, Fiona French [6] is currently investigating the potential of technological enrichment for captive elephants. The design of the interactive toys for elephants also focuses on acoustic enrichment experiences.…”

“…In addition to the physical and graphical interaction design aspects of such technology, sound and music can also play an important role in the design process [5]. Despite the increasing amount of hardware and software for animals, there are only a few studies devoted to the use of audio technologies to enrich the living environment of animals in captivity [6][7][8].…”

Manifestações da empatia na experiência de (game) design interespécie

“…Entre os objetivos principais desses estudos está a exploração das interações lúdicas mediadas pela tecnologia como uma via potencial de melhoria de qualidade de vida de animais. Pode-se citar, por exemplo, uma interface para a interação remota entre humanos e porcos (ALFRINK et al, 2013); um jogo interativo para o entretenimento e estímulo cognitivo de cães que passam os dias sozinhos em casa (GEURTSEN et al, 2015); e um projeto de experiências de entretenimento para elefantes (FRENCH et al, 2018).…”