Emerging Technologies Promoting Health

When you hear the word “robot,” what comes to mind? Do you picture a helpful humanoid machine or an imposing mechanical giant? At its core, a robot is a device designed to carry out particular functions.

"Most people think of robots as rigid machines made from metal and circuitry," says Dr. Ryan Sochol, mechanical engineer at the University of Maryland. However, medical robotics encompasses a wide variety of forms and capabilities.

Dr. Sochol and his research team are pioneering miniature, flexible robots aimed at enhancing surgical procedures. Meanwhile, other research groups are developing wearable systems to support movement or testing socially interactive robots that may assist with communication and well-being.

While many of these robotic solutions remain within laboratories and experimental trials, some may debut for general application over the next five to ten years.

Robots typically feature three major components: sensors to detect environmental data like light, motion, temperature, or sound; actuators that produce movement by converting energy; and control units or software directing their activities. Increasingly, robots utilize artificial intelligence (AI) to process large sets of information intelligently.

"Robotic systems are becoming commonplace—even modern vehicles incorporate them," notes Dr. Xiaopeng Zhao, a biomedical engineer at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. These features assist drivers in functions such as lane-keeping, parking, and speed regulation. "With AI advancing, robots are set to become even more capable and impactful."

Companion Robots Lend a Hand

Dr. Zhao and collaborators are investigating how lifelike interactive robots may support individuals with dementia and their families. With a rise in aging adults, the pressure on caregiving services is intensifying. Many family caregivers dedicate significant time and effort, often resulting in emotional and physical strain.

The research group conducted interviews at memory care clinics, senior homes, and community centers to understand the realities faced by those living with dementia and their caregivers. Using this feedback, they adapted a four-foot-high humanoid robot equipped with a chest-mounted touchscreen. Programmed with AI, these robots can speak, move, play media, dance, and spark memory-based conversations.

“Alzheimer’s often affects recent memories, but long-ago events may still be clear,” explains Zhao.

Through music, storytelling, and engaging conversation, the robots can elicit personal recollections related to treasured pastimes or significant experiences.

“While this doesn’t reverse memory loss, sharing memories creates joy and can uplift emotional well-being,” Zhao says. The robots offer unlimited patience for repeated stories and interactions.

Zhao’s team is also designing robots that guide caregivers by providing facts about dementia and wellness tips to manage stress and maintain health.

High-Tech Tools in Surgery

Elsewhere, scientists are engineering minuscule robotic instruments to support physicians during operations. Robotic-assisted surgery often results in smaller incisions, reduced discomfort and bleeding, and a faster recovery. It also carries fewer risks versus conventional methods.

Typically, robotic surgeries involve inserting compact 3D cameras and tools through small incisions. Sochol’s lab is working on specialized soft robots using flexible elements to aid in complex procedures, including treatments for brain aneurysms—swollen areas in blood vessels.

This type of surgery involves navigating a slender catheter through blood vessels to access areas in the brain. Reaching the aneurysm can be challenging due to the complex path, and failure means canceling the operation.

Using advanced 3D printing, Sochol’s group created a soft, steerable microcatheter that can be directed precisely during surgery to hard-to-reach spots. "Our design features robotic movement that allows for exact navigation during intricate procedures,” he explains.

Other research backed by NIH is focused on soft robot applications in heart surgeries, gastrointestinal procedures, and lung tissue biopsies. These concepts are still under development and evaluation.

Robotic Wearables for Movement

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) also funds advancements in prosthetics—artificial limbs and devices meant to replace lost anatomy. Some models interface with the human brain, allowing users to control robotic arms or legs with neural signals.

Additional teams are exploring wearable robots powered by energy-efficient batteries to aid those using their original limbs. "Exoskeletons are robotic suits worn over the body. They’re like high-tech garments—think of them as robotic pants or boots,” explains Dr. Gregory Sawicki, a biomedical engineer at Georgia Tech. “They assist your movements so your muscles don’t have to exert as much effort.”

Dr. Sawicki and his team are evaluating how these mechanical aids could boost stability in older adults and prevent falls. For seniors, falling can result in serious injuries or hospitalization. “Many falls happen because the body can’t respond quickly enough to maintain balance,” he says. Robotic enhancements may respond faster than natural reflexes.

Current research is exploring soft, lightweight exoskeletons that feel more like everyday apparel.

“Staying active is essential for long-term health and happiness. Physical mobility plays a major role in how we connect with others as we age,” Sawicki adds. “These tools help us move with less effort and maintain those vital human connections.”

While robotic aids offer wide-ranging benefits, they don’t replace the need for personal interaction.

“Many routine duties can be managed by robots, especially those that are dull or repetitive,” Zhao concludes. “However, when it comes to compassion, love, and human connection—those are irreplaceable qualities unique to people.”