A Review of Verbal and Non-Verbal Human-Robot Interactive Communication

In this paper, an overview of human-robot interactive communication is presented, covering verbal as well as non-verbal aspects of human-robot interaction. Following a historical introduction, and motivation towards fluid human-robot communication, ten desiderata are proposed, which provide an organizational axis both of recent as well as of future research on human-robot communication. Then, the ten desiderata are examined in detail, culminating to a unifying discussion, and a forward-looking conclusion

Feasibility Study of a Socially Assistive Humanoid Robot for Guiding Elderly Individuals during Walking

The impact of the world-wide ageing population has commenced with respect to society in developed countries. Several researchers focused on exploring new methods to improve the quality of life of elderly individuals by allowing them to remain independent and healthy to the maximum possible extent. For example, new walking aids are designed to allow elderly individuals to remain mobile in a safe manner because the importance of walking is well-known. The aim of the present study involves designing a humanoid robot guide as a walking trainer for elderly individuals. It is hypothesized that the same service robot provides an assistive and social contribution with respect to interaction between elderly users by motivating them to walk more and simultaneously provides assistance, such as physical assistance and gait monitoring, while walking. This study includes a detailed statement of the research problem as well as a literature review of existing studies related to walking companion robots. A user-centred design approach is adopted to report the results of the current first feasibility study by using a commercially available humanoid robot known as Pepper developed by Softbank-Aldebaran. A quantitative questionnaire was used to investigate all elements that assess intrinsic motivation in users while performing a given activity. Conversely, basic gait data were acquired through a video analysis to test the capability of the robot to modify the gait of human users. The results in terms of the feedback received from elderly subjects and the literature review improve the design of the walking trainer for elderly individuals

高齢者とともに歩行する社会的支援ヒューマノイドに関する研究

筑波大学 (University of Tsukuba)201

Guest Orientation, Assistance, and Telepresence Robot

The project was focused on a mobile research platform for autonomous navigation components and sensors vital to its autonomous interaction with its environment. The goal of this project was to create such a mobile robotic platform, which would in turn be capable of acting as a fully autonomous tour guide for the WPI campus. The project combined the robust capabilities of a Segway. Robotic Mobility Platform with the cutting edge adaptability of the Robot Operating System software framework. The robot will work in conjunction with school staff to provide video tour information as part of an enhanced tour experience. The project is a highly visible representation of WPI\u27s unique MQP program and its ability to prepare engineers capable of solving real world problems

Guest Orientation, Assistance, and Telepresence Robot

The project was focused on a mobile research platform for autonomous navigation components and sensors vital to its autonomous interaction with its environment. The goal of this project was to create such a mobile robotic platform, which would in turn be capable of acting as a fully autonomous tour guide for the WPI campus. The project combined the robust capabilities of a Segway Robotic Mobility Platform with the cutting edge adaptability of the Robot Operating System software framework. The robot will work in conjunction with school staff to provide video tour information as part of an enhanced tour experience. The project is a highly visible representation of WPI\u27s unique MQP program and its ability to prepare engineers capable of solving real world problems