Assessing User Needs and Requirements for Assistive Robots at Home

Area of Science:

• Robotics
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Healthcare Technology

Background:

• Assistive robotics is a rapidly advancing field with significant potential in healthcare.
• Understanding user needs is critical for the successful development and adoption of assistive robots.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of user needs and requirements gathering methods in assistive robotics research.
• To identify common strategies, exceptions, and challenges in this research area.
• To offer guidance for future researchers in selecting appropriate methodologies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of current research projects in assistive robotics.
• Analysis of commonly employed user needs assessment strategies.
• Identification and discussion of atypical approaches and their contexts.

Main Results:

• Several common methods for user requirements gathering were identified across studies.
• Variations and exceptions to standard practices were noted, offering alternative perspectives.
• Key challenges in user needs assessment within assistive robotics were discussed.

Conclusions:

• A structured understanding of user needs gathering methods is essential for effective assistive robot design.
• Future research should consider a diverse range of methodologies to address specific project contexts.
• Addressing identified challenges can improve the development of user-centered assistive robotic solutions for healthcare.