# Beyond Omakase: Designing Shared Control for Navigation Robots with Blind People

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2503.21997 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2503.21997/

## Key facts

- Cited by 4 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- First posted on arXiv 27 Mar 2025.

## Built on by (most cited first, 4 of 4)

- [GuideNav: User-Informed Development of a Vision-Only Robotic Navigation Assistant For Blind Travelers](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2512.06147/) (2025)
- [ShelfAware: Real-Time Semantic Localization in Quasi-Static Environments with Low-Cost Sensors](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2512.09065/) (2025)
- [CANINE: Coaching Visually Impaired Users for Interactive Navigation with a Robot Guide Dog](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2605.19501/) (2026)
- [RoboFind: Multi-Agent Personalized Object Search for People Who Are Blind or Have Low Vision](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2609.20330/) (2026)

## Abstract (arXiv)

Autonomous navigation robots can increase the independence of blind people but often limit user control, following what is called in Japanese an "omakase" approach where decisions are left to the robot. This research investigates ways to enhance user control in social robot navigation, based on two studies conducted with blind participants. The first study, involving structured interviews (N=14), identified crowded spaces as key areas with significant social challenges. The second study (N=13) explored navigation tasks with an autonomous robot in these environments and identified design strategies across different modes of autonomy. Participants preferred an active role, termed the "boss" mode, where they managed crowd interactions, while the "monitor" mode helped them assess the environment, negotiate movements, and interact with the robot. These findings highlight the importance of shared control and user involvement for blind users, offering valuable insights for designing future social navigation robots.