Recently, the European Patent Office (EPO) released a new patent insights report on robots designed to improve the lives of individuals with special needs. This report illustrates how patent data can reveal trends in emerging technologies, thereby assisting researchers, investors, and policymakers.

Assistive robots play a key role in addressing major social challenges, fostering inclusiveness, preserving human dignity, and contributing significantly to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 10 (aimed at reducing inequality within and among countries).

This report analyzes the patent trends in assistive robotics for people with special needs, a field focused on developing robotic systems for daily support, rehabilitation, and recovery. Specifically, it examines six robotic concepts: collaborative robots (“collaborative arms”), therapeutic robots, robotic walking aids, assistive exoskeletons, robotic mobility platforms, and humanoid/pet robots (e.g., for emotional support).

The study is based on publicly available patent information and looks into over 25,000 inventions filed by applicants from more than 80 countries over the past 50 years.

In addition to providing a comprehensive view of emerging trends in this technical area, it gives readers a deeper understanding of everyday challenges faced by individuals with special needs, highlighting the strong interaction between technology and medicine.

Key Findings

• Since 2000, the number of inventions in assistive robotics has grown more than twentyfold over two decades, peaking at nearly 600 international patent families (IPFs) in 2020.

• Growth in patenting activity in this field far exceeds the baseline growth in patent filings across all technologies during the same period (around 86% over that time).

• In recent years, the number of patent applications in assistive robotics has declined somewhat. This recent decrease may reflect shifts in R&D focus and priorities, a trend observed in other areas of medical technology as well.

• Among assistive robotics-related international patent families, companies and universities from Japan and Korea occupy the top five spots on the list of most active applicants.

• The most active applicants in the field of assistive robotics include companies and universities from Korea, Japan, Europe, and the United States.

Earliest Published International Patent Families in Assistive Robotics

Each international patent family (IPF) relates to a unique invention for which patent protection is sought in at least two countries.

Inspiring Inventors

A standout example mentioned in the report is Elena García Armada, winner of the 2022 European Inventor Award. She developed a robotic exoskeleton for children who use wheelchairs. Her adaptable device enables these children to walk during rehabilitation, improving both their well-being and life expectancy.

What Are Assistive Robots?

Assistive robots are devices designed to help individuals with physical or cognitive limitations perform tasks that may be difficult or impossible for them to carry out independently. They are commonly used to support daily activities, improve mobility, provide rehabilitation services, and enhance independence and quality of life for users, including older adults, people with disabilities, or those undergoing rehabilitation. These robots integrate technologies such as sensors, artificial intelligence, and mechanical components to interact safely and effectively with humans in various settings (homes, hospitals, and care facilities).

Further Retrieval of Patent Data

The dedicated search strategies developed for this report are included as part of its supplementary materials. These search strategies can be adapted into search queries for other publicly available online patent search tools, such as the EPO’s Espacenet. Users can easily adopt and customize these strategies to meet their specific needs (e.g., expanding or narrowing the search scope) for a deeper exploration of assistive robotics trends.