Neubo produces inflatable soft‑robotic toys that move through pneumatic actuation driven by a single compressed‑air source, removing the need for electronics or batteries. The toys incorporate modular pneumatic manifolds and interchangeable accessory ports to enable programmable gait cycles and safe, low‑pressure motion for children aged 4–10. They are sold directly to consumers and through retail partners as educational STEM play products.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Children’s play experiences often lack safe, tactile interaction with advanced robotics, while traditional educational toys rely on hard electronics that can be fragile, costly, and present safety concerns. This limits exposure to cutting‑edge soft‑robotics concepts for young learners and hampers market adoption of research‑grade technologies in consumer products.
Solution
Neubo translates laboratory‑grade soft‑robotics research into consumer‑ready inflatable toys that move through air‑powered pneumatic circuits instead of electronic actuators. A single compressed‑air source feeds a network of embedded channels, generating rhythmic walking, crawling, and other motions via controlled pressure differentials. The fully inflatable chassis eliminates hard parts, reducing impact risk and simplifying storage and shipping. Integrated pneumatic manifolds enable multiple degrees of freedom from one air inlet, allowing diverse motion patterns without complex wiring. All components are manufactured from durable, low‑pressure‑rated polymers, ensuring compliance with child‑safety standards while preserving the tactile feel of soft robotics. Data‑free operation removes the need for batteries or firmware, offering a maintenance‑free play experience. Neubo sells the toys directly to consumers and through retail partners, complemented by interchangeable pneumatic accessories for expanded play scenarios.
Target Audience
Primary customers are parents and caregivers seeking safe, educational toys for children aged 4–10, as well as specialty toy retailers and educational distributors looking to offer innovative STEM play solutions.
Features
- Inflatable soft‑robotic body fabricated from high‑tear‑resistance TPU, providing a lightweight, compressible form factor.
- Electronics‑free pneumatic actuation system that uses a single air source and a series of pressure‑controlled channels to drive locomotion.
- Modular pneumatic manifolds allowing programmable gait cycles and motion sequences without additional hardware.
- Safe, low‑pressure operation (< 0.2 bar) meeting ASTM F963 child‑safety standards, eliminating pinch points and electrical hazards.
- Quick‑connect air inlet and detachable accessory ports for easy swapping of motion modules or decorative add‑ons.
- Scalable manufacturing process based on heat‑seal bonding and CNC‑cut molds, supporting cost‑effective mass production.
- Compatibility with standard household air pumps or battery‑powered mini compressors for plug‑and‑play setup.