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Sensing interfaces for human-robot interaction: a scoping review for robotic walkers.
Fabiana Machado1, Matheus Loureiro2, Jorman Castro2
1Graduate Program in Informatics, Federal University of Espírito Santo (UFES), Vitória, Brazil.
Disability and Rehabilitation. Assistive Technology
|June 18, 2026
Summary
This review explores sensing interfaces for robotic walkers, focusing on user interaction and adaptive assistance. Future robotic walkers need fused sensor data for robust, user-centered mobility partnerships.
Area of Science:
- Robotics
- Human-Robot Interaction
- Assistive Technologies
Background:
- Robotic walker research is growing, but reviews often overlook sensing interfaces.
- Existing literature focuses on mechanics and control, not user-robot-environment interaction mediation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a scoping review of sensing interfaces for human-robot interaction in robotic walkers.
- To synthesize how sensing interfaces mediate user, robot, and environment interactions.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search following PRISMA-ScR guidelines across Web of Science, IEEE Xplore, and PubMed.
- Included 80 studies published between January 2020 and July 2025.
- Categorized studies into user intent, clinical assessment, safety/navigation, and localization.
Main Results:
- Force-based interaction and gait monitoring are key for adaptive assistance.
- Navigation sensing has evolved from basic obstacle detection to socially aware systems.
- Clinical validation is lacking, with only 25% of studies involving the target population.
Conclusions:
- Sensing technologies are crucial for robotic walker development.
- Intelligent fusion of multimodal sensor data is essential for robust, user-centered robotic walkers.
- Future systems must prioritize user needs for reliable mobility partnerships.