Scientists from the CSIR-Central Mechincal Engineering Research Institute, Durgapur, have developed a robot ‘HCARD’ to assist the frontline healthcare workers battling Covid-19 in maintaining physical distance from the virus infected patients and save themselves getting infected.
The robotic device HCARD, in short for Hospital Care Assistive Robotic Device, is equipped with various state-of-the-art technologies and works both in automatic as well as manual modes of navigation.
This robot can be controlled and monitored by a nursing booth with a control station having features such as navigation, drawer activation for providing medicines and food to patients, sample collection and audio-visual communication, said Prof. (Dr.) Harish Hirani, Director, CSIR-CMERI.
He explained, “The HCARD could be effective for frontline healthcare officials dealing with Covid-19 patients in delivering services while maintaining mandatory physical distancing”.
The cost of this device is less than Rs 5 lakh and the weight is less than 80 kilograms, added Prof. Hirani.
The CSIR-CMERI is also working on war footing to minimise the impact of the contagion through technological interventions.
Scientists at the CMERI have also developed a few other customized technologies, including Disinfection Walkway, Road Sanitiser Unit, Face Mask, Mechanical Ventilator and Hospital Waste Management Facility, said Prof Hirani.
