Augmenting robot behaviors using physiological measures

Abstract

In recent years, advancements in Unmanned Systems have allowed Human Robot Interaction (HRI) to transition from direct remote control to autonomous systems capable of self-navigation. However, these new technologies do not yet support true mixed-initiative solider-robot teaming where soldiers work with another agent as if it were another human being. In order to achieve this goal, researchers must explore new types of multi-modal and natural communication strategies and methods to provide robots improved understanding of their human counterparts' thought process. Physiological sensors are continuously becoming more portable and affordable leading to the possibility of providing new insight of team member state to a robot team member. However, steps need to be taken to improve how affective and cognitive states are measured and how these new metrics can be used to augment the decision making process for a robot team member. This paper describes current state of the art and next steps needed for accurate profile creation for improved human robot team performance. © 2011 Springer-Verlag.