Minimal Requirements of Realism In Social Robots

Abstract

In healthcare, the number of patients is increasing while available staff declines. Technology such as social robots becomes a likely solution for providing care. Realism plays an important role in how these social robots are perceived. We designed Polygon, a robot with a minimal amount of realism to explore whether it is possible to yield acceptable design opportunities with minimal means. This study evaluated 3 focus groups (N=34, 23 patients diagnosed with acquired brain injury (ABI), 11 healthcare professionals). Results indicate that patients with ABI are struggling with their independence and loneliness. Additionally, social robots designed with a minimal approach to realism could play a role as acceptable solutions for these patients.