Development of a user needs-based telepresence robot for consultation.

BACKGROUND

An assessment of needs to develop a system that provides consultations using a telepresence robot and education for health professionals was conducted. The absence of a structured methodology for user-needs analysis has been identified as a problem.

OBJECTIVE

To use a telepresence robot for medical consultation in future usability testing, the robot has been developed by analyzing end-user needs in a multifaceted manner.

METHODS

In designing the telepresence robot for consultation, required functions and forms were defined based on the results of a user-needs survey. The robot was implemented based on specifications of needs. The prototype robot was developed and after repeated internal tests, the final version was completed.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study holds significance as it systemized user needs, applied them to a new medical technology's components and functions, and provided a technology development process that could improve usability.