Honda Unveils AI Robot ‘Haru’ to Enhance Child Care at Spanish Hospital

TOKYO, Japan, November 29, 2024 – Honda Research Institute Japan Co., Ltd. (HRI-JP) has officially introduced its groundbreaking AI-powered social robot named ‘Haru’ at the Virgen del Rocío University Hospital (HUVR) in Seville, Spain. This innovative development aims to improve the well-being of children under hospital care, particularly those undergoing long-term treatment for cancer.

At the Annual Gala against Childhood Cancer on November 28, Haru was showcased as a critical initiative by HUVR to enhance the lives of young patients in need of emotional support.

Features of Haru

Designed to foster connections and joy, Haru stands at a compact 30cm tall, making it suitable for placement on tables where it can engage directly with children. Utilizing advanced AI technology, Haru can assess a child’s emotional state by analyzing their facial expressions and voice tones through built-in cameras and microphones. It can even connect with wearable sensors to provide deeper insights into the child’s well-being.

Demonstration Results

Before its formal introduction, Haru underwent a two-year demonstration phase within the pediatric oncology department. The positive results confirmed its potential in improving emotional and clinical care:

Emotional and Cognitive Assessments: Haru aids neuropsychologists in evaluating children’s emotional conditions, drastically increasing the number of assessments from 510 to an estimated 4,500 per year.
Rehabilitation Activities: During therapy sessions, 95% of children engaged more actively when interacting with Haru, compared to traditional methods.
Companionship: Haru provides entertainment and emotional support to children who often feel lonely during extended hospital stays.
Educational Support: By linking hospitalized children with their classrooms remotely, Haru enables continued learning and social interaction.

Statements from HUVR Officials

The hospital administration expressed optimism about Haru’s role, emphasizing its positive psychological effects on children’s spirits and the overall hospital environment. They described Haru as a unique companion that enhances children’s happiness in a challenging situation.

Comments from Honda

Honda’s Satoshi Shigemi stated, ‘Our aim is to utilize technology to help people,’ expressing enthusiasm for Haru’s capabilities in co-existing with children and providing emotional support within hospital settings. He reaffirmed their commitment to advancing Haru’s technology to better serve both young patients and healthcare staff.

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