Japanese robotics startup Yukai Engineering unveiled a portable cat-like robot that blows air to cool hot food and drinks for the first time at the Consumer Electronics Show.
The robot, named Nékojita FuFu, is aimed at people with tongues that are sensitive to heat. An online survey in Japan revealed that the condition affects almost 47 percent of the population.
The robot’s name comes from the Japanese word “nekojita,” which means cat’s tongue. This is a phrase used to describe people who are sensitive to hot food.
The second half of the name, “FuFu”, is an onomatopoeia for the sound made when air is blown into food to cool it down.
Nekoji FuFu works with a built-in fan unit powered by a rechargeable battery and uses a specially developed algorithm called the “Fu-ing System” to mimic human breathing.
You can switch between various blow modes, including the full-power “I’ve Got This!” In the gentler “No Spill” mode, the robot randomizes the strength and rhythm of the air bubbles to effectively lower the temperature while ensuring a personalized cooling experience.
Unlike traditional heat-reducing mugs, this robot is a standalone device that can be attached to any tableware with straight edges, making it highly versatile and compatible with a variety of bowls, cups, and mugs. .
It can go from 88℃ to 71℃ in 3 minutes and cool down to 66℃ in 5 minutes.
Created during Yukai Engineering’s 2024 internal Make-a-Thon, “Nékojita FuFu” was inspired by the personal story of Tsubasa Tominaga, the company’s chief marketing officer.
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Tominaga recognized the need for this product while remembering how she struggled to cool down her son’s hot baby food, often leaving her short of breath and feeling dizzy.
“We created “Nekojita FuFu” as a small personal meal partner that can solve your “Nekojita” problems anytime and anywhere,” says Tominaga.
“This robot will not only help you enjoy a hot cup of coffee; it will make it easier for the elderly to drink hot soup and reduce household chores for parents by helping children eat with less help. can.”
The company plans to launch Nékojita FuFu in Japan in mid-2025 after a crowdfunding campaign.
Yukai Engineering is a Tokyo-based startup known for innovative robot designs. The company has won several awards, including the CES 2023 Innovation Award for its BOCCO emo platform, which enables Japanese utilities and businesses to provide smart living services.
Other recent robots featured on Dezeen include a walking chair by Brooklyn artist Michael Candy and “friendly” robots for home and commercial environments by Hughes Projects.
Photo provided by: Yukai Engineering
CES 2025 will be held from January 7th to 10th, 2025 at various locations in Las Vegas. Check out the Dezeen Event Guide for the latest list of architecture and design events around the world.
