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Telepresence Robot System for People with Speech or Mobility Disabilities
Hebah ElGibreen1,2,3, Ghada Al Ali1, Rawan AlMegren1
1Information Technology Department, College of Computer and Information Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia.
Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)
|November 26, 2022
Summary
This study introduces a novel telepresence robot system for people with disabilities, enhancing their participation and communication. The system, integrating text-to-speech and emotion components, achieved over 95% user acceptance, proving beneficial for mobility and speech impairments.
Area of Science:
- Robotics and Human-Computer Interaction
- Assistive Technology
- Inclusive Design
Background:
- Increasing global disability necessitates inclusive solutions to overcome physical barriers.
- Telepresence robot technology offers a novel approach to enhance the presence of individuals with disabilities.
- Existing mobile telepresence systems have limitations in addressing diverse user needs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the current state and identify gaps in mobile telepresence robot systems.
- To propose a novel telepresence robot system integrating text-to-speech (TTS) and ICT with robotics.
- To enhance communication and physical presence for individuals with disabilities.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive analysis through comparative and elicitation studies.
- Development of a novel mobile telepresence robot system.
- Integration of text-to-speech (TTS), ICT, and robotics functionalities.
- User testing with 30 participants, including those with mobility or speech disabilities.
Main Results:
- The proposed system is the first to support speech impairment and incorporate emotion components in communication.
- User acceptance scores exceeded 95% in tests with individuals with disabilities.
- Users valued remote control, emotional expression via robot emojis, and audio-video streaming capabilities.
Conclusions:
- The novel telepresence system significantly enhances the physical presence and interaction capabilities for people with speech and mobility disabilities.
- The system's ability to provide agency through emoji-based communication and A/V streaming is a key asset.
- This technology represents a valuable tool for improving social inclusion and participation for individuals with disabilities.
