bi Robot is an advanced AI-powered humanoid robot developed by ABii by Van Robotics, originally designed as a smart classroom tutor but now extending its capabilities for broader applications in education, eldercare, therapy, and personal companionship. Unlike traditional humanoids aimed at industrial tasks, Abi focuses on social interaction, adaptive learning, and cognitive engagement, making it a unique convergence of robotics, artificial intelligence, and behavioral psychology.
After hands-on training with educators and administrators, ABii Classroom Expert (ACE) will get to know each educator by observing their class and then making recommendations for the best ways to incorporate ABii into regular learning practice. ACE coaches help teachers learn to use technology constructively to address the needs of all students.
Classroom coaching is essential for effective, long-term integration of educational technology. ABii robots are designed to flexibly integrate into daily instructional practice, but the specific ways in which ABii is implemented (independent learning time, small group workshop, or augmenting whole group instruction) may vary for each classroom based on the grade level, students, schedule and school preferences.
Use Cases
- Education (K-5): Intelligent tutoring system for math, reading, and general knowledge.
- Therapy and Autism Support: Engages with children with ADHD and ASD using evidence-based interactions.
- Companionship: Provides interactive play, feedback, and communication.
Hardware Components
| Component | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Processor | ARM Cortex-A series SoC |
| Memory | 2GB–4GB RAM, 16GB onboard storage |
| Display | LED matrix face panel for emotional expression |
| Microphones | Dual-array for speech input and noise filtering |
| Speaker | Mono speaker for clear audio output |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, USB-C |
| Sensors | Proximity sensors, accelerometer |
| Body | ABS plastic casing, stationary base (not mobile) |
Software Stack
a. Operating Environment
- Embedded Linux OS or Android-based environment for compatibility with app-driven content.
- OTA (Over-the-Air) updates for firmware and content updates.
b. AI & ML Capabilities
- Speech Recognition Engine: Wake-word detection + keyword recognition (e.g., CMU Sphinx or custom TinyML model).
- Emotion Modeling: Simple emotion models to determine appropriate feedback (happy, confused, encouraging).
- Performance Analytics: Cloud-based ML models evaluate user performance and adjust content.
c. Content Delivery Platform
- Content is authored via a custom teacher-authoring tool or uploaded from standard lesson databases.
- Delivered in a gamified format with animated avatars and real-time feedback.
- Structured around Common Core Curriculum standards in the U.S.
Abi Robot stands as a paradigm shift in assistive learning and human-robot interaction, blending AI, emotional intelligence, and practical pedagogy. Unlike robots built for industrial or purely assistive care tasks, Abi is engineered for long-term cognitive and social engagement, especially in educational and therapeutic environments. Its combination of low cost, high usability, and measurable impact makes it a standout platform in the growing field of social robotics.
Interaction Model
- User speaks a phrase (e.g., “Abi, let’s play math game”).
- Abi detects keyword, parses intent using NLP module.
- Fetches appropriate lesson module from local cache or cloud.
- Guides user through animated visual and vocal cues.
- Records user performance (time taken, correct answers, behavior).
- Uploads data to cloud dashboard for parent/teacher review.
Abi Robot has been deployed in:
- Public elementary schools (across multiple U.S. states).
- Special education classrooms for cognitive behavioral engagement.
- Remote learning environments during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Research Outcomes:
- Improved focus in ADHD students by 24%.
- Up to 40% increase in test scores with consistent use over 8 weeks.
- High teacher satisfaction due to reduced individual intervention load.