Channels of Human-Machine Communication


The goal of effective interaction between user and robot assistant makes it essential to provide a number of broadly utilizable and potentially redundant communication channels. The integration of classic interfaces, like graphical input-output devices, with newer types of interfaces such as speech and visual interfaces, tactile sensores, and force/torque sensors, is indispensable for the task. At the same time, the robot assistant must be able to differentiate between the user's communication and the dynamics resulting from the manipulation function itself.

Work in the field of man-machine communication and its specific channels includes the following themes:

	graphical input-output and visualization of system status and processes
	speech input-output, including dialogues for status reports and inquiries
	the input of "demonstrations" (teaching by showing) using gesticulation and mimicry or of commands through imperative gestures - the use of force-reflecting input devices, tactile and force/torque sensors for guiding, demonstrating, correcting, etc.
	the fusion of different information channels, including suitable handling of redundance and of incomplete information
	other interfaces for man-machine communication