Designing for People in Human-Robot Collaboration

Abstract

This preface introduces a special issue of the Interaction Design and Architecture(s) Journal (IxD&A, Issue 61, 2024), dedicated to exploring Human-Robot Collaboration (HRC). HRC, a subset of Human-Robot Interaction (HRI), focuses on how humans and robots work together toward shared goals across diverse contexts such as industry, healthcare, education, and creative domains. The issue emphasizes human-centred and design-led approaches, reflecting a growing interest in relational and entangled perspectives within robotics research. Key themes include inclusivity, cognitive ergonomics, psychological and ethical considerations, and the integration of robotics in creative workflows. Papers highlight critical dimensions of HRC, including the design of collaborative robots (cobots) for worker well-being, the use of augmented reality to enhance creative processes, and the role of nonverbal communication in fostering trust and empathy. Specific contributions explore the inclusion of marginalized groups in co-design processes, the ethical implications of robot use in sensitive contexts, and interdisciplinary methods for addressing challenges in collaborative environments. This issue highlights the non-neutrality of design, demonstrating that design decisions can shape outcomes for safety, creativity, inclusivity, and well-being. By presenting systematic reviews, empirical studies, and conceptual frameworks, it offers insights into advancing HRC through transdisciplinary collaboration. The findings aim to guide future research and practice in the design and integration of robotics systems that prioritize human needs and values.