Robotic features
Everything you wish to know about how our advanced humanoid robot can improve emotional well-being in children with long-term conditions, such as type 1 diabetes. Children can interact with the robot directly by visiting our robotics clinic at Liverpool John Moores University, in Liverpool, UK. Alternatively, children can interact with a virtual robot/simulation using an internet-enabled mobile device, laptop, or PC.
Humanoid features
The robot will have a talking feature. Children will be able to talk to the robot about their illness. The robot can move and recognise a child by name (e.g., 'hello Ahmed')
Emotional support
The robot will be able to administer evidence-based 'talking therapies' that raise a child's happiness levels, and make them feel better about their chronic illness.
illness education
The robot will inform the child of useful facts about their long-term illness, and administer a knowledge quiz about what's true and what's not (e.g., 'True or False: Insulin can't cure diabetes').
Self care
Older children can make poor decisions in self-managing their chronic illness, due to emotional distress. Emotional support provided by the robot will reduce the risk of poor self-management.
Virtual robot
A virtual robotic simulation will be available online. This virtual robot will also offer emotional support and illness education. Children will be able to interact with the robot through a mobile device/PC.