The PARO Therapeutic Robot

PARO is equipped with dual 32-bit processors, three microphones, twelve tactile sensors in its fur, touch-sensitive whiskers and a delicate system of motors and actuators that silently move its limbs and body.

The robot responds to petting by moving its tail and the opening and closing of his eyes. PARO is designed to actively seek eye contact, respond to touch, cuddle with people, remember faces and to learn actions that generate positive responses. Like animals in pet therapy PARO can help in relieving depression and anxiety but it does not needs to be fed.

PARO also responds to sounds and can learn names including his own name. It can simulate emotions such as surprise, happiness and anger. It produces sounds similar to a real baby seal and in contrast to a true baby seal it is programmed to be active during the day and to sleep at night.

 

PARO: http://www.parorobots.com