Applying Mobile Robot Technology to the Rehabilitation of Autistic Children

The paper discusses the background and major motivations which are driving the AuRoRA (Autonomous Robotic platform as a Remedial tool for children with Autism) research project. We argue that mobile robot technology can be used in a useful and scientifically challenging application area, namely the rehabilitation of children with autism. Initial steps of the development of a robotic platform as a remedial device are presented along with a discussion of the initial trials performed. We discuss work currently in progress, and believe that this particular application area has the potential to advance our understanding of human-robot interface design as well as having the possibility of aiding in the rehabilitation of autistic children.