A Method to Evaluate and Improve the Usability of a Robotic Hand Orthosis from the Caregiver Perspective

Human-centered design of assistive technology aims to achieve high functional benefits while considering user opinions to increase device usability and promote acceptance. Considering the needs and opinions of all real-world user groups, including not only the target end-users with disabilities but also their caregivers (e.g. family members, friends, or paid helpers) can improve the design of assistive devices. In this study, the perspectives and performances of 15 participants (3 clinical, 12 non-clinical) placed in a caregiver role to prepare and don a wearable robotic hand orthosis on a wheelchairbound mock end-user were investigated. Through the use of eye tracking combined with a retrospective think-aloud protocol, usability issues of the orthosis were identified and addressed in a design iteration. These design changes positively influenced the device usability by means of fewer problems occurring during the unsupervised setup procedure, as well as a significantly lower total procedure time (p = 0.02) in a second evaluation round. The caregiver perspective proved useful to improve the robotic hand orthosis design and usability, paving the way for unsupervised administration and use of the assistive device.