From Canada to Japan: How 10,000 km Affect User Perception in Robot Teleoperation

TL;DR

This study investigates how long-distance (10,000 km) robot teleoperation affects user perception, finding no significant difference compared to local control, supporting teleoperation's viability for remote care applications.

Contribution

It introduces a protocol and software architecture to evaluate user perception of long-distance robot teleoperation, demonstrating its potential for remote care.

Findings

No significant perception difference between local and remote robot control

Long-distance teleoperation is perceived similarly to local control

Supports teleoperation as a viable remote control method

Abstract

Robot teleoperation (RTo) has emerged as a viable alternative to local control, particularly when human intervention is still necessary. This research aims to study the distance effect on user perception in RTo, exploring the potential of teleoperated robots for older adult care. We propose an evaluation of non-expert users' perception of long-distance RTo, examining how their perception changes before and after interaction, as well as comparing it to that of locally operated robots. We have designed a specific protocol consisting of multiple questionnaires, along with a dedicated software architecture using the Robotics Operating System (ROS) and Unity. The results revealed no statistically significant differences between the local and remote robot conditions, suggesting that robots may be a viable alternative to traditional local control.