From Tools to Teammates: Toward the Development of Appropriate Mental Models for Intelligent Robots

A transition in robotics from tools to teammates is underway, but, because it is in an early state, experience with intelligent robots and agents is limited. As such, human mental models of intelligent robots are primitive, easily influenced by superficial characteristics, and often incomplete or inaccurate. This paper investigates the factors that influence mental models of robots, and explores solutions for the formation of accurate and useful mental models with a specific focus on military applications. Humans must possess a clear and accurate understanding of how robots communicate and operate, particularly in military settings where intelligent, autonomous robotic agents are desired. Complete and accurate mental models in these hazardous and critical applications will reduce the inherent danger of automation disuse or misuse. Implications for training and developing appropriate trust are also discussed

From the Lab to the Field: Observations from Unmanned System Field Research and Comparisons to Laboratory Counterparts

This paper examines the intricacies of applied robotics research, both in the laboratory and in the field. Described within will be some of the differences between lab and field studies that researchers must diligently work to reduce. Areas discussed include differences in technological capabilities, team composition, and system reliability. Rather than report the results of a single study, the purpose of this paper is to bring the Human Robot Interaction (HRI) research community closer as a whole. It also serves to emphasize the real-life implications of applied laboratory efforts, as opposed to fixating on the statistics alone. Specific \u27lessons learned\u27 with respect to successful, and not-so successful, strategies for conducting lab-based HRI research are also included. Finally, a testing facility for the continued congruence between lab and field HRI research is proposed

Leveraging Features of Human—Technology Teams to Support Mental Models in Future Soldier—Robot Teams

The future vision of military robotics is one in which robots will serve as integrated members of Soldier - robot teams. Robots will possess capabilities that will transition their role from functional tools to working teammates. Because robots and Soldiers will be deployed in environments characterized by uncertainty, complexity, and violence, it is imperative that Soldiers have accurate mental models of what their robotic teammates can do, cannot do, and will likely do. In this paper, we present the conclusions of a review into metaphors for facilitating accurate mental models of robotic teammates. Emphasis was placed on investigating existing human - technology teams (i.e., human teaming with automated systems including autopilot in cockpits, driver assistance systems, and personal assistant applications among others) for features that can support accurate mental models for Soldiers in future Soldier - robot teams

Developing a Tactical Language for Future Robotic Teammates

The transition of robots from valuable tools to useful teammates to humans is contingent upon successful communication methods. Effective communication has been shown to have a positive effect on the development and quality of shared mental models and on performance within human-human teams. Likely, effective communication will have a similarly positive effect within future human-robot teams. The purpose of this effort was, therefore, to develop a vocabulary database that facilitates the identification of suitable terms for tactical Human-Robot Interaction (HRI) in military contexts. The database can be utilized for the selection of appropriate terms to capture mission and movement intent, as well as to inform the selection of alternate terms to reduce communication errors. The end result of this research will help support the development of a human-robot language that enhances shared mental models among team members, and produce better interactions between human-robot teams. Copyright 2013 by Human Factors and Ergonomics Society, Inc

Believability of the “Man-Behind-The-Curtain”: Methodology Used in TPL HRI Studies for SUS Plus Up Project

Believability of the “Man-Behind-The-Curtain”: Methodology Used in TPL HRI Studies for SUS Plus Up Projec