AI and human-robot interaction: A review of recent advances and challenges

Abstract

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into human-robot interaction (HRI) has witnessed significant advancements in recent years, revolutionizing the way humans and robots collaborate and coexist. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the latest breakthroughs in AI-driven HRI and identifies the challenges that lie ahead. Recent years have seen a surge in AI-driven capabilities that enhance human-robot interaction. Machine learning algorithms enable robots to adapt to user preferences and behaviors, creating personalized and intuitive interactions. Natural language processing (NLP) facilitates seamless communication between humans and robots, enabling voice commands and context-aware responses. Computer vision advancements empower robots with enhanced perception, enabling them to recognize and interpret human gestures, emotions, and facial expressions. Reinforcement learning has played a pivotal role in enabling robots to learn from human feedback and optimize their actions in real-time. Socially assistive robots leverage AI to provide emotional support and companionship, particularly in healthcare and elderly care settings. Despite these advancements, challenges persist in the field of AI-driven HRI. Ethical considerations, including privacy concerns and the responsible use of AI in influencing human behavior, demand careful attention. Ensuring the safety and security of AI-driven robotic systems remains paramount, requiring robust measures against malicious attacks and unintended consequences. Human-robot trust remains a critical challenge, necessitating transparent AI algorithms and effective communication strategies. Interdisciplinary collaboration between AI researchers, roboticists, psychologists, and ethicists is essential to address the complex socio-technical aspects of HRI. The fusion of AI and human-robot interaction holds immense potential to redefine various facets of our daily lives. This review highlights recent strides in AI-driven HRI, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary efforts to address challenges and ensure the responsible development and deployment of AI-powered robotic systems. As researchers continue to innovate, the dynamic landscape of AI and human-robot interaction promises a future where seamless collaboration and coexistence between humans and robots become an integral part of our societal fabric.