Enabling independent living with assistive robotics 

About this research

Praminda and the team at Bristol Robotics Laboratory (BRL) are leading the way in the design of assistive robots. Their flagship projects include I-DRESS and CHIRON, both developing robotic devices to offer physical assistance.

This research is being further progressed as part of the Assuring Autonomy International Programme, where the BRL’s role is to develop safety and regulatory standards of close-proximate human-robot interaction in an unstructured environment with people with a range of sensory, cognitive and physical impairments. It's also being progressed as part of the H2020 programme METRICS, defining the benchmarks and evaluation protocols for emerging healthcare robotics technologies.

Connected assistive robotics at the Bristol Robotics Laboratory

Now more than ever there is increased consumer expectations for an Internet of Things (IoT) enabled home, driven by smart home automation systems. The team at UWE Bristol believe that integrating assistive robots, which add value by providing a physical embodied form for these emerging platforms, is a natural next step in developing a connected assistive ecosystem.

Praminda commented “Drawing on contextual information from activity sensors within the home, and information about the user’s current physical and emotional state, assistive robots can create value through provision of interventions that are socially intelligent in regards to how, and what advice and support is provided, and adapting as needs change”.

Putting the user first

The work in the BRL involves understanding how people and robots can interact intuitively, designing and testing robots that will be acceptable and enjoyable to use, ensuring that the technology is developed being mindful of ethical and cultural issues.

Using a person-centred approach helps the team to understand people’s context of use and perspectives of assistive technologies. Praminda commented “By putting the user first, we can investigate potential barriers and ensure effectiveness and efficiency. We aim to use design approaches that are inclusive, involving older people, their formal and informal carers, healthcare and social care and service providers, and clinicians”. 

The BRL has also been working with Extracare Charitable Trust in a Knowledge Transfer Partnership trialling and co-designing assistive technology with older adults and carers. This project provides evidence of the impact of assistive technologies on supporting people as they age. Working with care providers ensures that the research is informed by best practice and experience in health and social care.

Contribution to the UN 2030 sustainable development goals

UWE Bristol is proud to align our research to the UN sustainable development goals. The above research aligns with the following goals: