Project R-14393

Fostering Human-Robot Collaboration: Addressing the Skills Gap and Enhancing Work Dynamics (Research)

In modern industries, the pivotal collaboration between humans and collaborative robots (cobots) is crucial for Enhancing Human-Robot Collaboration (HRC). Although understanding human intentions for predicting behaviors is fundamental, the initial cobots' emphasis on functionality and safety might hinder concurrent human-cobot activities. The prevailing black box model, providing post-task feedback, overlooks real-time human well-being and collaborative potential, urging a transition to transparent, predictive control models incorporating real-time communication for system decisions. Additionally, in modern manufacturing, employers demand advanced skills from personnel interacting with and managing manufacturing equipment, aligning with evolving workplace needs. However, a scarcity of individuals possessing these proficiencies has led to a significant "skills gap," a pressing concern within the manufacturing sector. Addressing this gap involves considering human skill sets and pivoting towards centralizing the human role within the human-robot collaboration domain. This shift not only enhances collaboration but also elevates work quality and embraces the well-being of all involved, thereby shaping a more adaptive and effective industrial landscape.

01 November 2023 - 31 October 2027