Assistive robotics play a crucial role in addressing significant challenges in society, fostering inclusion, dignity and contributing meaningfully to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 10, which aims to reduce inequality within and among countries.  

The report examines patent trends in assistive robotics for people with special needs, a field focused on developing robotic systems for daily support, rehabilitation and recovery. In particular, it focuses on six robotic concepts: collaborative robots (“cobots”), therapeutic robots, robotic walkers, assistive exoskeletons, robotic mobile platforms and humanoid and pet robots (e.g. for emotional support).