The Giggle concept began in February 2004. We assembled a team
of technicians including the clinical engineering team at Sydney
Children's Hospital and in mid-2004 we debuted a Giggle
prototype.
The reception received assured us that the Giggle project would
mark a huge advancement for Camp Quality's profile as a provider of
fun therapy in a unique and creative manner.
Working with the expertise of Earle Emanuel and Ausbots Pty Ltd
we were able to produce a robot that did not conflict with hospital
frequencies and conformed to Australian standards. Giggle was
trialled in Sydney during the second half of 2005. Our first Giggle
operator was hired and Giggle began his regular visits to Westmead
and Sydney Children's Hospitals in February 2006.
Giggle was a huge success; he was loved by staff, parents and
kids. But the kids maybe loved him a little too much, and one could
say he was literally loved to death.
We learnt we needed a much stronger robot to stand up to hugs
and kisses the kids bestowed upon him. So we went back to the
design stage.
In 2008 Camp Quality joined with IMAGE FX. IMAGE FX is a
Sydney-based company that usually designs physical effects such as
snow, wind, fire and explosions for the Australian film and
television industry - just the people to build CQ a hug-proof,
kiss-proof Giggle.
Look out for Giggle roaming hospitals in Sydney, Canberra and
Brisbane.
Our sincere thanks goes to all who have been on the Giggle
journey. Without your hard work and support, Giggle would not be
out there putting big smiles on little faces.