Considerations on the future of interaction robotics

Unlike industrial robots, which are not designed to interact with humans, companion robots must be designed to be accepted by the users who interact with them. Designing such robots is a highly interdisciplinary task involving mechatronics and computer science (such as artificial intelligence), but not only. It's also equipment that moves, that can be touched by humans. These two points require a major effort on the exterior appearance, the strength and softness of materials, and the overall perception of safety. Collaborative design with product designers and experience designers greatly enriches the quality of robots, but psychologists and sociologists are also needed to create rich, trusting machines. Finally, for each type of application, it is important to include the various stakeholders in the design process, to ensure that these systems are as ethical as possible. For example, creating...