A Framework of Interface Improvements for Designing New User Interfaces for the MANUS Robot Arm

Abstract

Users of the MANUS robot arm experience a high cognitive and physical load when performing activities of daily living with the arm. These high loads originate from user interface problems and limitations. To reduce these high loads the user interface of the MANUS needs to be improved. Because large differences exist between the residual capabilities of MANUS users, different user interfaces need to be developed. As a design aid, a framework with user interface improvements and new features was developed. With this framework several new user interfaces can be designed. Most interface features in the framework can be adjusted to the residual body functions of the users and thereby reduce the high loads that users experience.