“Emo’s” Potential Application for Children with Autism

Overview

There are currently no at-home treatments for autism that use emotion recognition, animations (scenario behavioral learning), and positive reinforcement directly from the device. Therefore, a robotic dog, nicknamed “Emo”, that uses Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) treatment techniques can be created to help interpret emotions. The prototype was created with a Raspberry Pi that controlled the animations on the display and an Arduino that controlled the servos to move the physical parts. The physical structure of “Emo” involved a three-piece chassis, 2-part neck piece, screen mount, and four legs. Emo had a 7in display for users to play a “Guessing Game”, where an emotion is shown, and it must match to an emoji. The first engineering goal was reached because the physical structure was created, and Emo can move in 6 set positions. However, the device is not moving autonomously, and its movements have not been tested for mobility issues. The Visual display was assessed on its functionality as a game and incorporation of ABA techniques. Many ABA techniques such as various tries given to get the right answer and displaying a winning screen were used. The display was tested using a Questionnaire on 12 participants who interacted with the device. From their feedback, the size of the “next” button on the Starting and Loading screen should be increased and the animation should include clearer signs of happiness. The device “Emo” has the potential of helping children with autism improve how they interpret their emotions through ABA behavioral techniques.

Competition history

• JSHS 2022 Category not listed

Resources

• National JSHS abstract book ↗

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