The Honda Research Institute Japan, a subsidiary of Honda R&D responsible for cutting-edge technology research, officially presented its social robot with artificial intelligence (AI), named “Haru,” which is serving the Virgen del Rocío University Hospital (HUVR) in Seville, Spain, to enhance the well-being of children while they are in the hospital.
“Haru” was unveiled at the Annual Gala Against Childhood Cancer, held at the Casino de la Exposición in Seville, Spain, at the end of November, as one of the projects being implemented to improve the lives of children with cancer who stay in the hospital for long-term treatment.
This social robot was developed to be a social robot that forms empathetic relationships and makes people smile through expressive communication. As a compact robot standing 30 cm tall, “Haru” can be placed on a table for easier interaction.
“Haru” can read biometric information from the user, such as facial expressions and voice tones, thanks to integrated cameras and microphones, and then analyzes the information to understand the user’s state. In this way, it can interact with each person according to the analysis results, using empathetic expressions and emotional support responses.
Additionally, “Haru” can be connected to a wristwatch-like sensor that, when used, can analyze the user’s condition in more detail.
The HUVR has been conducting a trial with “Haru” in the pediatric oncology wing of the hospital since 2021, aiming to enhance the clinical and emotional care of young patients. Given that the results of the experience were positive in children with cancer, the decision was made to proceed with the full implementation of “Haru,” introducing 10 new units to be used in various everyday situations for children in the pediatric oncology unit.
