Robot with Heart and Mind at the Swiss Paraplegic Center Nottwil

The Swiss Paraplegic Center is a private specialist clinic in Nottwil and a leading center for research and teaching in the field of paraplegia. The clinic specializes in the treatment and rehabilitation of people with spinal cord injuries. It is the core institution of the Swiss Paraplegic Group (SPG). The SPC has 204 beds for inpatients. In 2023, 1569 patients were admitted as inpatients and a total of 59,893 days of care were provided. 540 people work in the SPC. Robotic technologies are used at the Paraplegic Center to improve the mobility and rehabilitation of patients with spinal cord injuries.  

Choosing an Interactive Robot

The robot selected for the SPC was made by Temi, a multinational robotics company whose robots are characterized by intuitive operation and versatile functions. At the SPC, the interactive robot was to facilitate better patient and visitor service: It must be able to provide information and directions, answer questions, and entertain. The robot must be clearly visible and easily accessible to all users, including wheelchair users, to meet their needs and improve mobility and orientation. The touch screen must be easily accessible and the robot must be easy and intuitive to use for all users, especially those with reduced mobility. 

A smart companion

Temi, the friendly robot at the entrance, greets patients and visitors and guides them reliably to their destination in the building. Temi was chosen not only for its display, which is ideally positioned for wheelchair users, but also for its open platform, which allows it to be expanded with additional functions such as elevator transport. Temi impresses with its inner values, such as AI-assisted navigation. The LBI-Temi navigation system is one of the best on the market and ensures smooth orientation in the building. The robot also offers an excellent price/performance ratio.

One challenge that has not yet been solved optimally is speech recognition. Ambient noise is a problem. However, voice control is an ideal solution, especially for people with limited hand and finger function. For this reason, specialists at SPC are actively working on optimizing speech recognition.

Pioneering the future of patient care

At the SPC, Temi is more than just a robot but a symbol of innovation and the determination to actively shape the future of patient care and improve patients' quality of life. Temi is also a source of inspiration and excitement for patients, visitors and the entire team. The discussions around the robot raise awareness of robotics and inspire new, visionary ideas. For example, in collaboration with Schindler, an innovative project is underway to enable Temi to independently use elevators, allowing the robot to accompany patients across different floors, making it easier for them to reach their destinations. The integration of augmented reality technologies such as Microsoft's HoloLens, already used by severely disabled patients, will further enhance Temi's capabilities.

AI and robotics for a better life

The implementation of AI solutions is at the heart of SPC's strategy to enhance Temi's intelligence and interaction capabilities. It will be able to respond even more individually to patients' needs and provide them with the highest level of support. Another innovative step is the planned introduction of the Unitree G1 Humanoid Agent AI avatar in the clinic. The diverse applications of this humanoid robot, such as serving as a wheelchair pusher, underscore the goal of promoting patient mobility and independence. These innovative technologies open up new dimensions in patient care and contribute to a better life for people with disabilities.

Paving the way for further developments  

With Temi, the Paraplegic Center is using technology with heart and mind. The intelligent robot brings technology to people in a friendly and accessible way. It performs relevant tasks and supports patients and visitors in a variety of ways - in a sensitive environment.

Temi is seen as a pioneer for future developments at the center. As a strong partner, UMB made an important contribution with its expertise in advising and supporting the evaluation and introduction of Temi. The close collaboration has allowed the robot's capabilities to be fully realized, while at the same time taking into account the needs of the environment. Temi is more than just a robot: it is a symbol of the successful use of technology at the service of people.

Thanks to UMB and Temi, the quality of life at the Paraplegic Center is improved and work is more patient-friendly and efficient.