Seeds-Needs Cooperation Method in Development of Nursing Care Robots: Utilization of Embodiment Model with Device Functions Simplified by ICF Model

Abstract

This paper presents a novel seeds-needs cooperation method using an ICF model and a simplified embodiment model to develop nursing care robots. In the V-process of the nursing care robot development guidebook published by AMED, an ICF model is used to consider role of robots in providing nursing care. In addition, the simplified embodiment model contributes to the realization of robots to achieve better nursing care using the proposed method. In particular, the ICF model and the simplified embodiment model are useful to design and refine the development concept of a nursing care robot. The validity of the proposed method is confirmed by a development record of an all-in-one nursing care robot for transferring and moving support in the Okinawa nursing care robot consultation.