HRi

Human-robot interaction (HRI) is an interdisciplinary field that studies how people interact with robots and how robot behavior can be designed to support human goals. It draws on computer science, cognitive psychology, social science, design, and engineering to examine both practical use and social implications of robots in daily life and work.

Researchers in HRI explore how humans perceive, understand, and control robotic systems, as well as how robots can understand human intentions through speech, gesture, gaze, and other cues. The field covers robot autonomy, decision making, and collaboration in shared tasks, with an emphasis on usability, safety, and trust.

Applications span service robots in homes, retail, and hospitality; healthcare robots for patient assistance and therapy; industrial settings where humans and machines work side by side; education, search and rescue, and exploration.

Methodologically, HRI uses laboratory experiments, field studies, and simulations, often combining quantitative metrics—task performance, error rates, workload, and safety indicators—with qualitative insights into user experience and acceptance.

Key topics include human-robot collaboration, natural communication and interaction modalities, explainable AI and transparency, adaptive interfaces, social and affective interaction, long-term relationships, and ethics and privacy considerations.

Developments since the 1990s have been driven by advances in sensing, AI, and autonomy, leading to more capable service and assistive robots. Ongoing challenges include ensuring safety and reliability, calibrating trust, addressing bias and accountability, and navigating cultural and organizational factors.