In this proof-of-concept study, the authors assessed the feasibility of using a humanoid robot controlled remotely via an immersive telepresence system to support a person with intellectual and motor disabilities performing a daily task (i.e. setting a table for lunch).
The system involved a head-mounted display and two joysticks. A teleoperator was able to see through the video cameras of the robot and deliver the instructions verbally to the participant located in a different room. To assess the system, a baseline phase (A) was followed by an intervention (i.e. tele-operated support) phase (B) and a return to a baseline phase (A).
Data showed a marked increase in the average frequency of task steps correctly performed from baseline (M = 15%) to intervention (M = 93%). Accuracy reached 100% in the return to baseline.
These preliminary findings, along with qualitative feedback from users, suggest that an immersive telepresence system may be used to provide remote support to people with intellectual and motor disabilities.
