Robot bear nanny RIBA

The robot for interactive body assistance (RIBA) was jointly developed by Riken and Tokai Rubber Industrial Co., LTD.

Combining RIKEN's controls, sensors, and information processing technology with materials and structural design technology from Tokai Rubber, RIBA is the first robot that can independently help disabled people get in and out of bed. The RIBA's body is covered with soft polyurethane foam to ensure the comfort of the patient being attended to, while the RIBA can recognize human faces and voices and can accept simple verbal commands.

RIBA's designers hope their robot will be ready for clinical use in hospitals within the next five years.