Development of an Adapted Access Protocol for Operating an Interactive Robot

Abstract

Purpose: The present study examined whether the telepresence robot, Double, can be controlled reliably with alternative access. Specifically, the study addressed the following research question: Can movement of the robot be adapted for alternative access for individuals with limited fine motor skills through the use of compatible alternative access switches? Methods: Systematic examination of (a) accuracy and latency of response, (b) required learning curve, (c) durability, and (d) setup complexity for switch-robot interfaces was completed. Results: The study showed that alternative access switches can accurately control the Double robot and latency of response was within 2 seconds for use with various communication partners. Learning curve was intuitive across all alternative access switches. Three of the alternative access switches were rated unlikely to tolerate durability conditions and setup complexity was rated as difficult for two of the alternative access switches. Conclusion: The study indicates that the Double can be controlled accurately via alternative access switch without a large learning curve, if it is set up beforehand. Control via alternative access switch has a response time fast enough to take part in typical communication interaction.