What's worse than being buried under snow? Being stuck in a hospital, especially when you're a child battling cancer. Honda has stepped in to make those long hospital stays more bearable with the introduction of an AI-powered robot dedicated to children's well-being and rehabilitation.

Unique Benefits of Haru in Pediatric Oncology Care

Enhanced Emotional Care

Since 2021, the Virgen del Rocío University Hospital (HUVR) in Seville, Spain, has been using Haru in its pediatric oncology ward. The aim is to provide not just medical treatment but also emotional support. According to the Honda press release, there has been a certain positive effect on children with cancer. Although no specific metrics were given, the hospital noticed a change in the kids' attitudes and behaviors. Haru's ability to capture biometric information like facial expressions and voice tone allows it to understand a child's emotional state and interact appropriately. It can be connected to a child via a linked wristwatch-type wearable for more detailed analysis. This helps in creating a more empathetic environment, making the children feel less alone and more connected.

Portability and Approachability

Haru measures just 12 inches in height, making it highly portable. Its small size is not intimidating to children who are already dealing with the stress of being in the hospital. Its desktop-friendly footprint allows it to fit easily into the ward environment. This makes it accessible to the children at all times, providing them with a constant source of comfort and interaction.

Contribution to Hospital Well-being

Typically, hospital technologies focus on medical treatments and physical well-being. However, Haru goes beyond that. It has a positive psychological effect of lightening the mood of young patients. This not only benefits the individual children but also contributes to the overall well-being of the hospital. The support Haru provides, enabling children under hospital care to feel more happiness and connection with others, is unique and offers valuable benefits not found in traditional medical care.This isn't Honda's first foray into creating happiness-inducing projects for children. Last year, Honda Performance Development (now Honda Racing Corporation) unveiled "Shogo," an electric ride-on vehicle for hospital patients aged four through nine. While Haru is focused on emotional support in the oncology ward, both projects share the common goal of making the hospital experience better for children.Have any good memories with robots? Talk to us about it at tips@thedrive.com.