NEW
2026 University Design Project
MEET KOKO.
Project Brief
Design a companion robot that makes loneliness obsolete - for everyone.
Emotional expression beyond voice
Personal interaction, not just smart control
Research
MARKET OPTIONS
Once the main problems were identified, existing solutions were analyzed to better understand the current market and design opportunities.
Key Insights
Beyond Voice-Only Interaction
From Utility to Personality
Features
Defining Koko’s purpose.
Sketching
INITAL IDEATION
Exploring new housing forms around the existing speaker components to define Koko’s shape, proportions, and companion-like character.
PROTOTYPING
The original 2.1g plastic servo overheated during torso movement, so I upgraded to a 9g metal gear servo, which solved the issue and improved reliability.
3D printing helped quickly test parts, fix fitment issues, and make troubleshooting electronics easier during prototyping.
Exploded View
PCB Design
A custom PCB was created to meet Koko’s specific power, space, and wiring requirements.
KiCad
Designed in KiCad through two iterations: a larger board for circuit testing, then a smaller version to fit inside Koko
3D Printing
Custom PCB Fabrication
Assembly
Python Coding
The KOKO app lets users customize KOKO, unlock fun features, and control it beyond voice.
Introducing Koko.
The KOKO app lets users customize KOKO, unlock fun features, and control it beyond voice.
With its built-in I2S microphone, KOKO lets users interact naturally through voice, listening directly and responding with an expressive AI voice system.