Life-like communication agent-emotion sensing character "MIC" and feeling session character "MUSE"

Abstract

Why do people, regardless of age or gender, have an affinity for objects manifested in the human form? From the earthen figures of ancient times to mechanical dolls, teddy bears and robots, is it not true that man has conceived such objects in his imagination, then formed attachments and transferred emotions to them? In this paper, we address the issues of communication and esthetics of artificial life that possess this "human form" in modern society, both from artistic and engineering standpoints. An example is presented in which emotions are interpreted from human voices and emotional responses are triggered within the interactive setting of "MIC & MUSE". MIC is a cute male child who is an emotion communication character. MUSE is a goddess; she has the capability of musical communication.