Mexican students develop humanoid robot for elderly assistance

Students from the Universidad Tecnológica de Altamira in Tamaulipas, Mexico, have developed a humanoid robot prototype named Ban-Bot designed to assist elderly individuals and people with reduced mobility. Developed by Mechatronics Engineering students Fernando Banda Rodríguez and Oliver Sánchez, the fifth version of the robot utilizes artificial intelligence and LiDAR sensors to navigate spaces autonomously.

Ban-Bot is intended to provide companionship and assist with daily tasks, such as reminding users to take medication. The creators noted that the technology is meant to supplement, rather than replace, medical care or family assistance. The project was recently highlighted during the Encuentro Nacional en Ciencias 2026, where students presented innovation proposals to President Claudia Sheinbaum.