Japanese machinery manufacturer NSK has announced it is developing a new service robot technology to support frontline healthcare staff and services.
One use of the technology could be moving patients in medical settings.
In October 2021, the company joined a Japanese government initiative to implement robotic technology in hospitals to limit the effects of the Coronavirus pandemic.
NSK has expressed desire to help move people around medical facilities, focusing on smooth movement and low noise solutions.
After initially considering an AMR, NSK decided to proceed with development of a motorised assistance robot, as they felt it better suited the narrow corridors and high footfall rates present in hospitals.
The prototype was designed to reduce the physical burden on healthcare workers, which could move heavy items, such as stretchers and trolleys, with the company reportedly working with a major hospital to demonstrate its solution’s viability.
The development process will have a focus on engaging users through short feedback cycles of three months.
The machine uses a motor drive to enable smooth starting and acceleration, as well as deceleration and tight turns and support a wider company ethos of building solutions that can improve society.
