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A systematic review of human odometry.
Tyler M Wiles1, Alli Grunkemeyer1, Nick Stergiou1,2
1Department of Biomechanics, University of Nebraska at Omaha, 6160 University Dr S, Omaha, NE, 68182, USA.
Psychological Research
|November 15, 2024
Summary
Human odometry, the ability to navigate without sight, is best understood in young adults. Research shows distance perception varies with gait and distance, but more detailed studies are needed.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Science
- Neuroscience
- Human Factors Engineering
Background:
- Human odometry enables egocentric spatial updating during self-motion without visual input.
- Understanding this capability is crucial for fields ranging from robotics to rehabilitation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the state-of-the-art in human odometry research.
- To identify research gaps and propose hypotheses for future investigation using Strong Inference.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive systematic literature search was conducted across six major academic databases up to February 16, 2023.
- Twenty-three articles meeting inclusion criteria were selected from over 7,000 initial records for detailed analysis.
Main Results:
- Young, healthy adults are the predominant study population.
- Distance perception in human odometry is sensitive to factors like travel distance and gait type.
- Typical studies involve simple measurement tools, with participants attempting to perceive an average distance of 14.3 meters over 3-4 trials.
Conclusions:
- Current human odometry research exhibits moderate quality, with a mean score of 6.13.
- Significant variability in methodology and insufficient detail in publications represent key limitations.
- Future research should prioritize more detailed manuscripts to address literature gaps and enhance methodological consistency.
