arXiv subjects

Bruce N. Walker

Publications and source records attributed to Bruce N. Walker.

4 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2026

A Spatial Knowledge Acquisition Comparison Between Digital Visual Thematic Maps, Non-Visual Interactive Text Thematic Maps, and Tables

Digital maps are used to communicate generalized spatial information and relationships, yet are commonly made "accessible" using tables that lack geographic information. This study examines whether these tables and interactive text maps (ITMs) may be comparable to visual maps. Twenty sighted and 20 blind and low-vision individuals (BLVIs) performed tasks designed to compare visual maps, ITMs, and tables. Participants answered numeric, geographic, and combined numeric geographic questions using each representation, and performance, preference, and NASA-TLX were measured. Across both participant groups, map representations (visual and ITMs) significantly outperformed tables on geographic-based questions, while performance differences were minimal for numeric questions. For sighted participants, performance on geographic questions did not significantly differ between visual maps and ITMs, indicating that a larger powered study may find an "equivalent purpose" across these two conditions. Participants preferred map-based representations over tables. Perceived workload was highest for the ITM, intermediate for the visual map, and lowest for the table. Consistent with the Map Equivalent Purpose Framework, these findings indicate that Web Content Accessibility Guidelines-compliant ITMs can provide access to spatial information, unlike tables. These findings challenge prevailing accessibility practice that recommends tables lacking geographic information as map alternatives, and motivate reconsideration of accessibility legislation exempting digital thematic maps.

cs.HC↗

arXiv2025

Systematically Evaluating Equivalent Purpose for Digital Maps

Digital geographic maps remain largely inaccessible to blind and low-vision individuals (BLVIs), despite global legislation adopting the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). A critical gap exists in defining "equivalent purpose" for maps under WCAG Success Criterion 1.1.1, which requires that non-text content provide a text alternative that serves the "equivalent purpose". This paper proposes a systematic framework for evaluating map accessibility, called the Map Equivalent-Purpose Framework (MEP Framework), defining purpose through three items (Generalized, Spatial Information, and Spatial Relationships), and establishing 15 measurable criteria for equivalent information communication. Eight text map representations were evaluated against visual map baselines using the proposed MEP Framework. Results show that legacy methods such as tables and turn-by-turn directions fail to meet the MEP Framework criteria, while Audiom Maps, Multi User Domain (MUD) Maps, and Audio Descriptions meet the criteria. The evaluation highlights the necessity of holistic, systematic approaches to ensure non-visual maps convey all generalized spatial information and relationships present in visual maps. The MEP Framework provides a replicable methodology for comprehensively assessing digital map accessibility, clarifying WCAG's "equivalent purpose", and guiding compliant and usable map creation. Compliant maps will support BLVIs' participation in map-dependent professions and civic engagement.

cs.HC↗

arXiv2025

Do Looks Matter? Exploring Functional and Aesthetic Design Preferences for a Robotic Guide Dog

Dog guides offer an effective mobility solution for blind or visually impaired (BVI) individuals, but conventional dog guides have limitations including the need for care, potential distractions, societal prejudice, high costs, and limited availability. To address these challenges, we seek to develop a robot dog guide capable of performing the tasks of a conventional dog guide, enhanced with additional features. In this work, we focus on design research to identify functional and aesthetic design concepts to implement into a quadrupedal robot. The aesthetic design remains relevant even for BVI users due to their sensitivity toward societal perceptions and the need for smooth integration into society. We collected data through interviews and surveys to answer specific design questions pertaining to the appearance, texture, features, and method of controlling and communicating with the robot. Our study identified essential and preferred features for a future robot dog guide, which are supported by relevant statistics aligning with each suggestion. These findings will inform the future development of user-centered designs to effectively meet the needs of BVI individuals.

cs.HC↗

arXiv2025

Understanding Expectations for a Robotic Guide Dog for Visually Impaired People

Robotic guide dogs hold significant potential to enhance the autonomy and mobility of blind or visually impaired (BVI) individuals by offering universal assistance over unstructured terrains at affordable costs. However, the design of robotic guide dogs remains underexplored, particularly in systematic aspects such as gait controllers, navigation behaviors, interaction methods, and verbal explanations. Our study addresses this gap by conducting user studies with 18 BVI participants, comprising 15 cane users and three guide dog users. Participants interacted with a quadrupedal robot and provided both quantitative and qualitative feedback. Our study revealed several design implications, such as a preference for a learning-based controller and a rigid handle, gradual turns with asymmetric speeds, semantic communication methods, and explainability. The study also highlighted the importance of customization to support users with diverse backgrounds and preferences, along with practical concerns such as battery life, maintenance, and weather issues. These findings offer valuable insights and design implications for future research and development of robotic guide dogs.

cs.RO↗