The robotic dog Xiaoxi is on duty Photo: Zhang Yiyun
By Jin Yingying
A four-legged robotic dog, named “Xiaoxi”, has recently begun its role as a caregiver in a residential community in Xihu district, Hangzhou. Xiaoxi has been on the job for a month and has quickly gained popularity among residents. Equipped with a medical kit, the robot has been navigating the corridors and courtyards, reminding elderly residents to take their medication on time.
Xiaoxi was developed by West Lake Robotics, which is the first high-quality project transforming results from the West Lake University’s artificial intelligence and robotics department into real-world applications.
Unlike the heavy-duty robotic dogs typically seen in industrial settings, Xiaoxi weighs only 14 kilograms. Despite its small size, the robot can do a lot--delivering meals and medications, providing companionship on walks, and even guiding elderly residents to the bathroom. In its role as a community “elderly assistant”, Xiaoxi has quickly become a trusted helper.
In recent years, Xihu district has been pushing for digital innovations in home-based elderly care, implementing various services in areas such as smart mobility, health management, and security. For instance, the district has installed residential security systems that monitor the health and safety of elderly residents in real time.
Wang Sicong, an algorithm engineer at West Lake Robotics, explained that Xiaoxi’s impressive intelligence is due to its specialized “depth camera”, which enables the robot to map terrain and detect obstacles. Meanwhile, its industrial camera provides high-resolution imagery for human recognition.
Xiaoxi’s presence has provided added reassurance to elderly residents, particularly those who are isolated, living alone, or suffering from cognitive impairments.
“We hope that more technological innovations like this robotic dog will be integrated into grassroots governance, improving the quality of life for elderly residents, especially those who are isolated or living alone,” said an official from Xihu district.