Characteristics of optimal interactive man-robot systems

Robotic systems that are designed to assist humans or to operate interactively with them, should have an interface characterized by several features in order to ensure an optimal operation of the man-robot system (MRS). Some of the most important features are: (1) adaptability - the system should be able to learn the relevant human´s needs and adjust itself to it; (2) situational awareness - the interface should enable the human to be aware of the situation of the MRS and of its relevant environments, continuously; (3) coordination - the operations of the robotic and the human components should be coordinated. This implies that the robotic mechanism should include algorithms that can predict human´s expectations like temporal ones; (4) control - in general, the man should, at all times, feel that he can control the operation of the MRS.