Development update: Human-Robot collaboration in FELICE

The introduction of human-robot collaboration does not necessarily result in improving work. From the point of ergonomics, automation technology should also result in an increase in human well-being. This is one major focus of the FELICE project. How can the resilience and endurance of a robot be combined with the cognitive abilities of humans?

Classically, optimizing workflows between humans and robots is about increasing performance or efficiency. But what does optimizing well-being look like? In the case of FELICE, we are talking about a mobile robot that works alongside humans on an assembly line. It can be used in various work situations and, for example, hands over tools and components to the human that are needed for the production process. Hence, the robot is about to become an assistant that supports the human through collaborative work. This also requires determining individual timing.

IfADo researchers are involved in specifying and helping to shape the requirements for collaboration with the robot. In this context, safety is paramount in human-robot collaboration: on the physical level, for example, there is a risk of collision. On the cognitive level, the necessary as well as the available information must be planned during collaboration and execution of actions. IfADo evaluates and assesses the interaction and pays particular attention to aspects of user-friendliness and acceptance of the robot as an assistant.