Clinical evaluation of a desktop robotic assistant

A desktop vocational assistant robotic workstation was evaluated by 24 high-level quadriplegics from the Palo Alto Veterans Affairs Spinal Cord Injury Center. The system is capable of performing daily living and vocational activities for individuals with high-level quadriplegia via voice control. Subjects were asked to use the robot to perform a repertoire of daily living activities, including preparing a meal and feeding themselves, washing their face, shaving, and brushing teeth. Pre- and post-test questionnaires, interviews, and observer assessments were conducted to determine the quality of the robot performance and the reaction of the disabled users toward this technology. Results of the evaluations were generally positive and demonstrated the usefulness of this technology in assisting high-level quadriplegics to perform daily activities and to gain a modicum of independence and privacy in their lives.