Scientists developed an artificial intelligence controlled relaxation system for children with emotional disorders
A team of researchers from various Lithuanian higher education institutions was brought together by the company NP5 to help implement a long-developed concept: the creation of an artificial intelligence-powered relaxation system called “Neurocass”, designed specifically for children with emotional disorders.
The project, led by Viktorija Laucyte-Mizgeriene, includes experts from Vilnius University (Dr. Vytautas Zalys, Dr. Margarita Jurevičienė, Dr. Miglė Dovydaitienė), Klaipėda University (Dr. Laura Straubergaitė-Zalienė), and Vilnius University of Applied Sciences (Dr. Eugenijus Mačerauskas), along with students Erikas Asaka and Slavomir Cetyrkovski.
According to Dr. Eugenijus Mačerauskas of the Faculty of Electronics and Informatics at Vilnius University of Applied Sciences, the motivation to develop such a system came directly from real-world needs:
“The idea grew out of personal experiences and conversations with parents raising autistic children. These children often show exceptional talent and creativity, but emotional instability can significantly hinder their ability to focus. Sometimes, a child may suddenly experience an emotional outburst during a lesson and become unable to participate for hours. That’s what sparked the idea to develop a system that could help them calm down.
We are grateful that NP5 brought together a multidisciplinary team of researchers from across Lithuania. The project was supported by the Agency for Science, Innovation and Technology (MITA) and NP5. This is a high-tech initiative that bridges science and business to meet the pressing needs of vulnerable members of our society.”
Turning Future Technologies into Reality
According to Dr. Eugenijus Mačerauskas, the relaxation system is built on the integration of three sensory components.
“During a session, the child reclines in a specially designed vibrating chair while listening to a custom-composed audio track featuring soothing sounds—such as forest ambience, dolphin calls, Tibetan monk chants, or other selected calming music. These sounds are synchronized with gentle vibrations delivered through the chair, following a carefully designed micro-massage pattern. This multisensory approach activates auditory perception and provides a subtle tactile experience.
Additionally, ambient lighting is adjusted to complement the mood created by the sounds. The system continuously monitors the child’s facial expressions via an integrated video camera. An advanced artificial intelligence algorithm—developed specifically for this project—interprets emotional cues in real time. Based on the child’s emotional state, the AI dynamically adjusts the music, vibration, and lighting intensity to create a personalized and calming experience.
The result is a truly responsive environment, guided by a groundbreaking AI-based emotional recognition system—an innovation with no direct equivalent globally. This 'computer empathy' technology, pioneered by NP5 and its team of scientists, not only enhances relaxation therapy but also opens the door to future applications in AI-driven psychological support systems.”
Testing Confirms the Effectiveness of the Relaxation System
Initial testing of the AI-powered relaxation system demonstrated promising results. Thirty children of various ages and with different types of emotional and developmental disorders participated in the trials alongside their parents. Observations and feedback revealed that the system effectively helped children relax and regain emotional balance.
More than 80% of the participants responded positively, with no adverse reactions reported. Only a small number of responses were neutral, and none were negative—clear evidence of the system’s calming potential.
One particularly moving case, as shared by Dr. Eugenijus Mačerauskas, involved a young couple who brought in their four-year-old daughter, Vakarė, who lives with cerebral palsy and multiple chronic conditions. Due to the severity of her symptoms, Vakarė is typically fed through a gastric tube and relies on sleep medication. During the session, she peacefully fell asleep in the chair within just 15 minutes—something her parents noted was extremely rare without medication. This moment marked a small but significant victory for the family and the research team.
Encouraged by these results, the scientists believe this system could be a viable alternative or complement to pharmaceutical treatments. The solution developed by NP5 and its interdisciplinary research team represents just the beginning. Further innovations are already being considered to broaden the application of this technology and support even more individuals in need.