Walking environments for persons with visual impairments using mobility assistance systems: a comparison of smartphone navigation and robot guidance

This study aims to evaluate and compare the utility and application of smartphone navigation systems and robot guidance systems in mobility assistance for persons with visual impairments (PVI). Given that visual impairment affects approximately 2.2 billion people globally, ensuring safe and efficient mobility is essential for PVI’s autonomy and well-being. We conducted experiments involving 38 participants to assess their experiences with both systems in a commercial facility. Data were collected through questionnaires and system logs. Our findings demonstrated that robot guidance improved movement speed (mean = 0.69 m/s) compared to smartphone navigation (mean = 0.53 m/s; <0.001, Wilcoxon signed-rank test). Subjective evaluations on six indicators were all significantly higher for the robot guidance, with the largest differences in safety and orientation. Furthermore, we analyzed the distinct informational needs of totally blind individuals and those with low vision, emphasizing the necessity of tailored navigation support. This research provides valuable insights into the design and implementation of mobility assistance systems, highlighting the importance of user-centered approaches to enhance the quality of life for PVI. Future research should continue to refine these systems and explore their effectiveness in various environments, ultimately contributing to improved independent mobility for individuals with visual impairments.