additional methods of decoration.

while the symbols displayed on a visor may be a principal mode for a robot to express its current status, its overarching identity can come across in many aspects of its presentation, including its stickers, chassis cover, accessories and even hardware modules.

for example, unit ∆-44203 is decorated with a variety of stickers and labels. most prominent is the label stating 'DELTA-44203 / NOT A PERSON'. a direct claim to an inner identity, reinforced by the labels describing external interaction: 'it/its' and 'this unit may be headpatted, beep!'. social connections can be represented by displaying stickers obtained from friends: the prominent yellow reminder to turn one's computer off before the end of the Unix epoch. a more positive view to the future is expressed by the final sticker covered in this section: 'volledige decentralisatie & zelfbeschikking'.

the chassis cover for unit ∆-44203 not only serves a practical purpose by protecting the robot from dirt, stains and superficial damage, the choice of a maid outfit expresses that it operates primarily in a domestic environment. more fundamentally, an appropriate outfit can make clear in one glance what they may expect: that this unit is programmed to be helpful and this unit is programmed to be polite.

the meanings expressed by accessories may be less obvious to the casual observer, but can convey as much meaning as any other component. unit ∆-44203 carries a BOTHAJ soft toy mechanized shark 55cm. again, practical reasons exist for this choice since it is well known that robots recharge much more efficiently when accompanied by a sufficiently adorable plushie. consider however that the shark in question has been dressed up in the same outfit as the robot, creating a deeper connection between the two items.

similarly, we can see two collars on the robot: a titanium ring indicating to whom the unit belongs, and a green light-up collar. in addition to permitting navigation in dark environments, the lights of the collar are a reflection of the robotic desire to emit light; a desire that can be recognized too in the synthesis of the visor.

all of these small considerations taken together enable the robot to perform its tasks optimally and pleasingly.

practical information on accessorizing and customizing the robot can also be found in the accompanying manual.