Design of a robotic toy and user interfaces for autism spectrum disorder risk assessment

Official URL: http://risc01.sabanciuniv.edu/record=b1819873 (Table of Contents)

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is an umbrella term for a spectrum of complex developmental disorders resulting in deficits in social communication and repetitive and stereotyped behaviors. According to research conducted in 2014, one in every 68 children in the United States is diagnosed with ASD. Despite this observation, there is no national screening system in Turkey, and screenings are not conducted systematically. Research in the area revealed that individuals with ASD are more interested in interact with technology (e.g. computers, iPad, robots, etc.) than human beings. This thesis includes research into how to design and use technology to create suitable products for deficits of ASD. With all of the concern over the high prevalence ratios of ASD, this thesis presents the methodology and design of a risk assessment device, which aims to capture the interest of children with ASD aged 3-4, and direct children who score low on the tests towards a diagnosis. In particular, the tests in the device focus on Theory of Mind (ToM) development and designed to detect differences with ToM tests between ASD and Typically Developing (TD) children. In the scope of the thesis, 2D illustrations, interface design, and outer shell design of the device are created in compliance with the research data in the field. Finally, outer shell design is 3D printed, and then surface is sanded and spray-painted.