Scientists have developed a robot companion for elderly that keeps a tab on whether your loved ones are taking their medication or getting enough physical exercise.
The Mobiserv robot was developed by a consortium of European research institutes and companies, as one component of the larger Mobiserv Project.
The armless wheeled autonomous robot, which was developed over the past three years, is equipped with stereoscopic cameras, two-way audio communications (it can speak, and understand human speech), various sensors, and a touchscreen interface.
One of its main duties is to track the in-home activities of its human companion. In particular, it notes how often they engage in things like physical activity, taking medication, contacting other people, and eating meals.
If the person hasn't gotten up from their chair in some time, for instance, the Mobiserv robot will move over to them and verbally suggest that they get some exercise, 'Gizmag' reported.
If they're interested, they can then choose from a variety of exercises demonstrated on the robot's touchscreen.
It can also suggest people which meals they could prepare or see who's at their front door via a remote video camera.
The robot's tone of voice, behaviour, and other characteristics can be customised to suit the user.
The current prototype of the Mobiserv robot costs about USD 13,338 to build, although it's hoped that a commercial version of the robot may be available within a couple of years at a cheaper amount.
Mobiserv is a collaborative European research project, started in December 2009 by 8 partners from 7 countries representing care organisations, universities, research institutions and industry.
