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IntelliTable: Inclusively-Designed Furniture with Robotic Capabilities
Tony J Prescott1, Sebastian Conran2, Ben Mitchinson1
1Sheffield Robotics, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S1 3JD, UK.
Studies in Health Technology and Informatics
|September 7, 2017
Summary
IntelliTable is a novel robotic assistive technology, a self-navigating table controlled via smartphone. It enhances independence in home and care settings by autonomously moving and positioning itself.
Area of Science:
- Robotics
- Assistive Technology
- Human-Computer Interaction
Background:
- Traditional assistive devices often lack mobility and adaptability.
- Increasing need for independent living solutions in home and care environments.
- Limitations in current robotic systems for domestic use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce IntelliTable, a proof-of-principle robotic assistive system.
- To describe the design, capabilities, and human-centered development of IntelliTable.
- To evaluate the feasibility of a mobile robotic table for user assistance.
Main Methods:
- Human-centered design methodology for development and evaluation.
- Development of a robotic cantilever table with autonomous navigation.
- Smartphone-based control interface for user command and programming.
- Integration of ceiling tracking, optical guidance, and sonar navigation for environmental awareness.
Main Results:
- Successfully designed and built the IntelliTable robotic platform.
- Demonstrated autonomous navigation in simulated home/care environments, including obstacle avoidance.
- Enabled user-controlled positioning and pre-programmed navigation to specific locations.
- Validated the human-centered design approach through initial evaluations.
Conclusions:
- IntelliTable represents a viable robotic platform for assistive technology.
- Smartphone control and diverse navigation methods enhance usability and functionality.
- The system shows potential for improving independence and quality of life for users in domestic settings.