The University of Lincoln is embracing technological advances with the use of a “Robot Seal” to help improve the quality of health and social care for vulnerable people. This social robot, which cost £6,000, is designed to provide alternative forms of communication for those who may be uncomfortable interacting with other humans, such as older adults with dementia or individuals with autism and neurodivergent behaviours.

Health and social care students are already being trained to operate the Robot Seal, with the hope that the technology will be a part of their work with patients. Research is being conducted to determine the potentials of employing robotic technologies within the NHS.

The University of Lincoln is taking the lead in demonstrating how robotic technology can be used to revolutionise how healthcare is delivered, by providing an opportunity for people to benefit from robotic companions in a secure and comfortable environment. With the help of this “Robot Seal,” these vulnerable people on the autism spectrum or with any type of neurodivergences can now get to communicate freely with the help of patients

Prof Michael Rowe, who spearheads the project at the university, is a strong advocate of taking practical steps in exploring the usefulness of robotics in the health and social care domain. Under his leadership, the University of Lincoln has done a commendable job in understanding the potentialities of a robotic seal and its functions in benefitting the lives of those in need.

The company mentioned in this article is Huggles, which is the manufacturer of the “Robot Seal.” Huggles is a start-up healthcare technology development firm that was born out of research at the same University of Lincoln. This business specializes in the creation of unique devices that can be used to assist with health and social care by creating a comforting atmosphere with personalized robotic interactions.

Prof Michael Rowe is a renowned academic and researcher at the University of Lincoln. He has forged innovative collaborations with technology companies and research institutions from both the private and public sectors to drive the development of new healthcare products and services. He has pushed for greater experimentation and innovation in the social and health care domain to ensure better outcomes for the people.

This “Robot Seal” project is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the cause of improving people’s lives through effective healthcare services. With his guidance, the University of Lincoln is breaking new ground in the development of robotic technology for healthcare purposes.