What Is It Like for Visually Impaired Individuals To Touch a Table-Top Humanoid Robot?

Abstract

To ensure that robots can effectively serve all individuals in public facilities, it is essential to consider accessibility and inclusivity. In particular, tactile interaction might play a significant role in engaging with visually impaired individuals. This study explored the potential of hands-on interaction between visually impaired individuals and a table-top humanoid robot. Five participants with visual impairments were recruited and asked to interact with the robot. The study consisted of two conditions: one with gestures from the robot and one without gestures. The results of this study indicated that touching a moving table-top humanoid robot improves their impressions of it and the information accessibility regarding directional guidance.