Project - Robotic seals for welfare & comfort

Paro

Project start September 2008. Expected completion September 2010.

Paro is a Japanese developed model of a real baby seal. It is designed to look, react and move like a real baby seal. The Paro-seal is a robot with built in computers, that 'learns' with time. These computers are linked to a number of sensors on the seal’s torso, which allow the Paro to see, hear, feel and recognize stimulants and surroundings.

The Danish Technological Institute’s project, involves innovation of the very highest levels. Denmark will be the first country in the world working towards professionalizing the use of welfare robots like Paro, amongst other things, to train and certify welfare and social workers.

During the course of the project trials, information will be systematically gathered and coordinated with the Japanese partners, resulting in international co-operation and technological development within the field of welfare.

Project Objectives