Romibo robot project: an open-source effort to develop a low-cost sensory adaptable robot for special needs therapy and education

The Romibo Robot Project is an evolving robot for motivation, education and social therapy. Our project goal is to improve research techniques through the use of robots and social therapies while providing value to the Do-It-Yourself movement and STEM education initiatives. The robot has been designed around applications for individuals with conditions including autism, traumatic brain injury and dementia. Romibo includes features taken from other therapeutic robots currently used in research, such as Keepon, Pleo and Paro. The Romibo Project stands out by providing a low-cost development platform while providing the necessary features for use in a wide range of social therapies. The platform features a fully customizable design, allowing for individual creativity, ease of assembly and experimentation. Romibo is a social robot, able to convey emotions, communicate socially, and form relationships with individuals.