  We present the design of the Stewart Platform Robot for Interactive Tabletop
Engagement (SPRITE). This robot is designed for use in socially assistive
robotics, a field focusing on non-contact social interaction to help people
achieve goals relating to health, wellness, and education. We describe a series
of design goals for a tabletop, socially assistive robot, including expressive
movement, affective communication, a friendly, nonthreatening, and customizable
appearance, and a safe, robust, and easily-repaired mechanical design.
