Therapeutic Robotics for Children with Disabilities: A Case Study

Abstract

The advancement of technology is having a profound effect on enhancing the lives of children with disabilities. As advances in biomedical technology allow research breakthroughs to continue at a steady pace, more and more is being discovered about the nature of different disorders in children. At the same time, partly due to the continuing rapid rate of advancement (and societal acceptance) of robotics technology, researchers, educators, and therapists are exploring the idea that robots might be used as an effective therapeutic and educational tool. Over the past nine years, AnthroTronix has collaborated extensively with therapists, educators, researchers, parents, and children to uncover the therapeutic and educational benefits of including robotics as part of rehabilitation curriculum for children. As a central part of this effort, the company has worked with its colleagues to develop and refine the CosmoBot system, an interactive robotic toolkit designed to enhance therapy, education, and play for children with disabilities.