ArticleMethodsX2026
Innovative educational technology for visually impaired learners using a 3D-Printed foot reflexology robot.
Article in MethodsX, 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
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The abstract states no effect estimate the extractor could read, or names no intervention and outcome on the map, so this paper lights no cell and moves no belief. It is still indexed, cited and linked below.
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Authors and funding
6 authors.
Funding
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Abstract
This study presents the design, development, and validation of a foot reflexology teaching robot that integrates multidisciplinary design, rapid prototyping, and user-centred assistive educational strategies to support tactile learning for visually impaired individuals. A digital foot model, derived from anthropometric data of an average Thai female, was refined to achieve a balance between anatomical accuracy and manufacturability. The structural design featured modular internal compartments, precision openings, and detachable covers to support maintenance without compromising anatomical realism. Fabrication using PLA-based fused deposition modelling (FDM) produced a lightweight, durable, and cost-effective prototype incorporating interactive tactile sensing and modular electrical components. A Raspberry Pi platform programmed in Python enabled audio-based instructional feedback triggered by tactile interaction, creating a multisensory educational device for experiential reflexology training. Structured evaluation sessions with 29 visually impaired learners confirmed its effectiveness in facilitating hands-on engagement, multisensory learning, and usability, with high satisfaction across safety and practicality. Overall, this work establishes a replicable framework for developing accessible and inclusive assistive educational technologies. • Integrated multidisciplinary design and user-centred development approach. • Applied rapid prototyping to translate digital anatomical models into functional physical components. • Conducted user-based evaluation to assess educational effectiveness and accessibility.
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Registered trials
Read under generation 80e0d062 · epoch 390. Bibliography from PubMed, PubMed Central and OpenAlex; grants from NIH RePORTER; trial links from ClinicalTrials.gov; estimates, votes and beliefs from the OpenQuestion graph.