According to the Robot Institute of America, "[a robot] is programmable, multi-functional manipulator designed to move material parts tools or specialized devices through various programs motions for the performance of a variety of task" (Khan, 1998).
R2D2 in George Lucas's Star Wars saga, however, is more than a robot. R2D2 is the epitome of an emotive, service robot. He is the one most recognizable robot in science fiction (SF) cinema as one of the most helpful, relatable, and fun-loving robots in SF films.
Although some people deplore relying on artificial intelligence, R2D2 has been a welcome part of the group, aiding his masters when the going gets tough and being an integral part in employing plans while remaining coy.
In a study, interviewers asked interviewees what requirements would be best for a service robots. The study was done quite some time after Star Wars' release, but most people prefered the characteristics, both physically and vocally, to a robot fitting R2D2's description, specifically R2D2s size, walking speed, communication, shape, and ability to faithfully carry out tasks (Khan, 1998).
R2D2's ability to interact with humans by expressing emotion is most likely why the droid is one of the most famous and considered one of the most friendliest robots in science fiction films. R2D2 seems to simulate human nonverbal expressions such as shaking his head. Sound designer Ben Burtt used an analog synthesizer and samples of his own voice to create R2D2's unique sounds (Jee, et al, 2010). Perhaps it is the use of Burtt's own voice that helped relay to the audience R2D2 was communicating emotionally rather than just being a series of beeps and boops.
The same way we can determine if someone is asking us a question or is excited by their voice inflection, the audience is able to determine what R2D2 is saying with the metallic beeps and whistles. Yet the droid's unique shape and small size provokes an anthropomorphism feeling to that of a small child or baby (Jee, et al, 2010).
R2D2's sounds were based on two types of sounds:
Jee, E. S., Jeong, Y. J., Kim, C. H., & Kobayashi, H. (2010). Sound design for emotion and
intention expression of socially interactive robots. Intelligent Service Robotics, 3(3), 199-206The same way we can determine if someone is asking us a question or is excited by their voice inflection, the audience is able to determine what R2D2 is saying with the metallic beeps and whistles. Yet the droid's unique shape and small size provokes an anthropomorphism feeling to that of a small child or baby (Jee, et al, 2010).
R2D2's sounds were based on two types of sounds:
- Intention sounds
- Sounds that convey meaning like yes and no
- Sounds that convey situations such as warnings or greetings
- Emotion sounds
- Sounds that communicate feelings like happiness or sadness
Intonation was used to control the intensity of emotion, thoughts, and mood. Jee (2010) writes, "In terms of pitch, even though the
perceptible pitch range of humans is from 20 to 20,000 Hz,
the pitch range between 100 and 1,500 Hz is appropriate for
the sound of a robot. This is because a voice in this pitch range
is most common in normal human communication, and most
of us feel comfortable when we hear a sound within this pitch
range" (pg. 201).
Ben Burtt kept in mind that the robot sound in our Tues robot language should be universal a good quality for those who are watching films.
Reference
Khan, Z. (1998). Attitudes towards intelligent service robots. NADA KTH, Stockholm, 17
Lucas, G. (Director) (1977). Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope. [DVD]. United States. 20th Century Fox
by Alix Rael
