Telepresence Robots for Medical and Homecare Applications

Abstract

This chapter explores the up-to-date research findings and industry practices in telepresence robots for medical and homecare applications, including rehabilitation and therapy, monitoring and assistance, and communication. Moreover, the key contributing factors to the success of telepresence robots are also discussed to address the future trends and opportunities. Robots have the advantages of high precision, strong consistency, and stability. Thus, in the field of medical applications, the use of robots exactly helps to overcome the technical limitations of conventional surgery performed by physicians. Telepresence helps extend not only human vision and hearing but also the sense of touch, which is important for physical rehabilitation. From the user's perspective, human-centered design is definitely critical to the success of the telepresence robot. Once the real demands can be explored and realized, telepresence robots will eventually enter our lives as new roles for modern medicine and homecare.