Design of a Robot Head for an Assistive Robot used in the Clinical Treatment of Children with Autism

Authors

Jacob Robinson, Brigham Young University
Dr. Mark Colton, Brigham Young University

Keywords

robot head, assistive robot, clinical treatment of children, Autism

College

Ira A. Fulton College of Engineering and Technology

Department

Mechanical Engineering

Abstract

Autism is a spectrum disorder that is characterized by an impairment of the child’s social relationships, communication skills, and imaginative thought, resulting in a decreased quality of life for the child and his or her family, as well as significant economic costs to society. Although clinical treatment has helped some autistic children learn social skills, many others do not respond well to clinical treatment. Some research groups have investigated the use of robots as a tool to help therapists connect to the patient easier. Autistic children are more inclined to interact with a mechanical device because they exhibit repeatable actions that are easy for the child to understand.

Recommended Citation

Robinson, Jacob and Colton, Dr. Mark (2014) "Design of a Robot Head for an Assistive Robot used in the Clinical Treatment of Children with Autism," Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2014: Iss. 1, Article 113.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2014/iss1/113