An Australia-first study has kicked off in Brisbane to see if robots can help those with a sweet tooth to kick their cravings.
QUT Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation PhD student Nicole Robinson has 12 willing participants enlisted so far for her study seeking to encourage healthy eating habits in those who snack on high-fat, high-sugar food and drinks.
As part of the study, participants will have a conversation with two knee-high NAO robots named Andy and Rob who will ask questions, listen to what goals the participant would like to set and then discuss with the participant how they can achieve those goals.
It was hoped the robots, who speak in a "non-judgemental" and child-like voice, would reduce the inhibitions in those who normally feel uncomfortable about speaking with a person.
"Behavioural change can be difficult to do. It can be something that is a little bit uncomfortable or sometimes people just need a little bit of a helping hand to get started," Ms Robinson said.
"Because we do have the robot, it is someone you can bounce back between so it is not just an information relay, it is not just inputting your data, it feels like an interaction with somebody, having the robot in the room with you.
"It is a little bit of a step up from a self-directed program that you would do from a tablet or smartphone."
The robots would not take over the role of a healthcare professional but instead act as an extra tool to provide routine, low-cost and consistent treatment.
"Eating habits is something a lot of people know what to do or what could be helpful for eating but sometimes they just need support in putting those actions into place," Ms Robinson said.
"We are looking at a behavioural outcome in being able to decrease or limit their sugary snack intake."
While robots have been integrated into a range of industries, Ms Robinson there was room to grow within the healthcare industry.
"We haven't really had much exposure to robotics in different areas," she said.
"We do have surgical robots but other than that, we haven't seen them used in other areas.
"It will be interesting to see how people will respond to robotic support when it comes to health outcomes."
Those who are over the age of 18 wanting to kick their unhealthy snacking habits are encouraged to participate in the study. To find out more, email Ms Robinson on robofit@qut.edu.au
*The study is not designed for those with an eating disorder.
