Robo-teddy could serve as therapy for chronically ill

MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) researchers have announced that a soft, plush robo-teddy that they've developed could soon serve as a form of therapy for a number of ailments.

The MIT scientists created a teddy bear, called Huggable, which will be able to provide affection for young patients by cuddling, nuzzling, and - of course - hugging.

Huggable has sensitive skin, located under layers of silicone and plush fur covering the bear's body. The skin has three sensors for temperature, force, and electric fields.

The scientists also embedded cameras in the bear's eyes and microphones in the fizzy companion's ears so the bear could help caregivers with patient monitoring and data collection.

According to MIT researchers, the idea of the prototype came from pet therapy, in which live animals interact with patients to help them recover.

Animal companionship benefits people by lowering stress, elevating mood, and helping them socialize with others, the scientists claim.

The researchers say the bear's aesthetic inspiration came from Gund Toys, but its technology mimics a similar bear from Steven Spielberg's movie A.I: Artificial Intelligence.

Photography: The Piggy Bank Shop

Source: Discovery Channel Reports, August 3 edition