Qonur: AI-Powered Robot Bear

Qonur is an inclusive actor robot bear designed for children and adolescents. It takes part in story-based performances that address bullying, empathy, and awareness through theatre and interactive storytelling.

Why a teddy bear
The teddy bear form is intentional: it’s a familiar “first friend” object meant to create comfort and trust quickly, so children feel safer asking questions and participating.​The name Qonur comes from Qonur Ayı, the brown bear of Azerbaijan, the country’s most common bear species and the inspiration for our robotic bear toy.

System design (hybrid control)
Qonur runs as a hybrid system: AI-based automation plus manual control via a mobile application, following a “robotic marionette” approach for live performance reliability.​
This enables dynamic responses on stage while still following a prepared script and handling unexpected situations in a controlled way.​

Hardware

• PLA-based 3D-printed body (~40 cm tall, ~2 kg).​

• Servo-driven neck, arms, and eyelids for expressive gestures.​

• Microphone (ear) + speaker (chest) for conversation.​

• Raspberry Pi + AI processing module; portable, battery-powered (power bank).​

Software

• Voice-based NLP built on the Gemini API; implementation in Python and C++.​

• Q&A behavior grounded in predefined scenarios/personality traits, but supports open-ended questions for more natural dialogue.​

• Communication support includes Azerbaijani and English (and broader language coverage via the system).​

Accessibility & use cases
Communication is designed to be simple, clear, and slow-paced, using gestures and body language to support children with diverse abilities.​
Intended formats include schools, festivals, seminars, and workshops (e.g., anti-bullying, empathy, social skills).​

My role
I was Project Lead (robotics): mechanical movement/structure, portable design decisions, and 3D modeling; end-to-end coordination with the team.​

Team
Jamil Hamzayev (AI/software), Gülarə Aliyeva (3D design/assembly), Nadejda Potaenko & Almaz Hasanzada (costume/appearance), Aynur Zarrintaj (script/dramaturgy).

Funding and Sustainability
Qonur has been developed through international and local collaboration, with support from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), as well as local initiative groups and shelters. These partnerships enabled its development and use in theatre-based educational programs.

Currently, Qonur is used in live performances addressing social topics like bullying and empathy, while ongoing work focuses on improving its technical capabilities. Future development includes integrating vision-based AI, reducing latency, and enhancing movement expressiveness.

The project aims to scale through continued partnerships with educational institutions, NGOs, and cultural organizations, supported by grants and program-based collaborations.