Robot doctors: Recognitions, assessments, and dialog-based interventions

Health represents a fundamental aspect of human existence, encompassing not only the absence of disease but also the achievement of optimal physical and mental well-being. Recent global challenges have expedited transformative changes within the health-care domain, emphasizing the critical need for the development and implementation of innovative health-care delivery methodologies. In this evolving landscape, humanoid robots (HRs) have emerged as crucial entities in revolutionizing health monitoring practices. This thesis advances a series of sophisticated algorithms designed to empower HRs to autonomously recognize critical health parameters, conduct comprehensive assessments, and implement dialog-based interventions, thereby positioning them as personal health-care providers in individuals' daily routines. The initial section offers an extensive literature review, exploring the latest advancements in assistive robotics and their health-care implications. The subsequent sections provide a detailed exploration of the design and implementation of the heart rate monitoring algorithm, followed by an in-depth analysis of the personalized temperature estimation algorithm. In response to the psychological impacts of social isolation and quarantine induced by the COVID-19 pandemic, the following section presents a speech-based emotion analysis algorithm specifically designed for patients in quarantine. This is followed by the development of a facial mask-wearing control and regulation algorithm aimed at mitigating the effects of the pandemic. Finally, the thesis culminates in a case study that examines the application of HRs in facilitating physical exercise for geriatric patients. While the developed algorithms are expressly implemented on NAO, Alpha Mini and Alpha 1Pro HRs within the scope of this thesis, but its applicability extends to encompass all other HRs. The simulation and experimental results of each implemented algorithm highlight the significant role of assistive HRs in health-care, emphasizing their positive impact and effectiveness in advancing health interventions.