Australian-based robotics and AI startup Andromeda Robotics is undertaking initial trials with aged care provider Allity – part of the Bolton Clarke Group.
The trials involve Andromeda’s protype humanoid companion robot designed to interact with residents in a relaxed and conversational manner.
Powered by the Chat GPT-4 Artificial Intelligence platform, the robot – named Abi – can recognise residents, answer questions and tailor conversations based on previous interactions.
Thena Johnstone, National Pathways Manager, Allity, said Abi has been success with residents who enjoy interacting with it through voice.
“We have been fortunate enough to be involved with Abi from the very early stages and have watched it grow in both capability and physical stature,” she said.
“Abi now stands some 120cm tall and can gesture and move its head and eyes when interacting with residents.”
Johnstone said ongoing staff shortages across the aged care sector meant it was sometimes difficult to find times for conversations with residents. This is where a robot such as Abi can add significant value.
Andromeda founder Grace Brown said the initial trial at Allity was a significant step in the ongoing evolution of Abi – providing invaluable data for the company’s development team.
“Abi uses a mix of machine vision, Artificial Intelligence and Chat GPT to power its interactions with residents,” she said.
“Abi also relies on non-verbal cues and we have worked with advisors from animation studios Pixar and DreamWorks to make Abi’s body language as empathetic and engaging as possible.”
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