Robotic Assistants for Universal Access

Abstract

Abstract. Much research is now focusing on how technology is moving away from the traditional computer to a range of smart devices in smart environments, the so-called Internet of Things. With this increase in computing power and decrease in form factor, we are approaching the possibility of a new generation of robotic assistants able to perform a range of tasks and activities to support all kinds of users. However, history shows that unless care is taken early in the design process, the users who may stand to benefit the most from such assistance may inadvertently be excluded from it. This paper examines some of those historical missteps and examines possible ways forward to ensure that the next generation robots support the principles of universal access.

When universal access is not quite universal enough: case studies and lessons to be learned

“…As discussed earlier, in the early stages of the development of any new and innovative product, the focus is principally on developing the new technology, especially overcoming the inherent engineering challenges to make something that accomplishes the basic task set required [38]. Users typically get overlooked in this early stage of development, not least because if the engineering challenges are significant, there is no guarantee that a feasible product may ever be developed [39]. Instead, designers typically end up designing something that they themselves, regarding themselves as suitable substitutes for the actual end-users [40].…”

“…The typical causes of failure in the other robots were illustrated by the EPI-RAID workstation [39] (see Fig. 4).…”

When Universal Access Does not Go to Plan: Lessons to Be Learned

“…As discussed earlier, in the early stages of the development of any new and innovative product, the focus is principally on developing the new technology, especially overcoming the inherent engineering challenges to make something that accomplishes the basic task set required [29]. Users typically get overlooked in this early stage of development, not least because if the engineering challenges are significant, there is no guarantee that a feasible product may ever be developed [30]. Instead, designers typically end up designing something that they themselves, regarding themselves as suitable substitutes for the actual end-users [31].…”

“…The typical causes of failure in the other robots were illustrated by the EPI-RAID workstation [30] (see Fig. 4).…”

Accounting for Diversity in Robot Design, Testbeds, and Safety Standardization

“…On top of that, the standard lacks safeguards for specific categories of users, such as children, pregnant women, and older adults (as highlighted in the introduction of ISO 13482:2014). However, recognizing individuals' unique characteristics and providing adequate safeguards is essential for not only wearable robots' correct functioning but also for ensuring user safety and universal access [18,36,63,67,98,113].…”