Hello Robot, a pioneer in assistive robotics, has been awarded a significant Phase II Small Business Innovation Research grant by the National Institute on Aging, a division of the National Institute of Health (NIH). The grant, totaling approximately $2.5 million, is aimed at further enhancing the development of Hello Robot's groundbreaking Stretch Cognitive and Physical Assistant.

At the core of Hello Robot's mission is the creation of assistive mobile manipulator robots designed to support aging adults facing cognitive and physical challenges. The Stretch robot, characterized by its slender and adaptable design, operates autonomously to provide invaluable assistance to individuals with diverse needs.

Stretch 2, the latest iteration of Hello Robot's innovative creation, boasts impressive features, including a vertical range of motion spanning 109 cm and a telescoping arm capable of extending 52 cm beyond its base. Equipped with a versatile wrist extension, Stretch can effectively reach even the most inaccessible areas, such as the back of a countertop.

Driven by a vision to offer a friendly, affordable, and capable companion for older adults navigating physical and cognitive impairments, Hello Robot aims to revolutionize the caregiving landscape. CEO Dr. Aaron Edsinger emphasizes the critical role of robots like Stretch in addressing the caregiving crisis, enabling older individuals to age comfortably in their own homes with enhanced support.

The Phase II NIH grant represents a significant milestone in Hello Robot's journey, building upon the success of previous research endeavors. Collaborating with esteemed institutions such as the University of Illinois, led by Dr. Wendy Rogers, Hello Robot has demonstrated Stretch's efficacy in providing meaningful assistance to individuals with quadriplegia.

Expanding on this foundation, the new grant focuses on testing Stretch's capabilities in assisting individuals with mild cognitive impairment across both physical and cognitive tasks. Dr. Edsinger underscores the collective effort of an exceptional team dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals of all ages and abilities through innovative robotics solutions.

In addition to advancing Stretch's functionality, Hello Robot plans to refine its remote control interface to facilitate caregiver usage. Furthermore, the grant will support the exploration of Stretch's utility in various home and assisted living environments, paving the way for widespread adoption and impact in the realm of assistive robotics.