Who's Leading This Dance?: Theorizing Automatic and Strategic Synchrony in Human-Exoskeleton Interactions

Abstract

Wearable robots are an emerging form of technology that allow organizations to combine the strength, precision, and performance of machines with the flexibility, intelligence, and problem-solving abilities of human wearers. Active exoskeletons are a type of wearable robot that gives wearers the ability to effortlessly lift up to 200 lbs., as well as perform other types of physically demanding tasks that would be too strenuous for most humans. Synchronization between exoskeleton suits and wearers is one of the most challenging requirements to operate these technologies effectively. In this conceptual paper, we extend interpersonal adaption theory (IAT) to the exoskeleton context and explicate (a) the antecedents that are most likely to shape synchrony in human-exoskeleton interactions, (b) automatic and strategic synchrony as adaptive behaviors in human-exoskeleton interactions, and (c) outcome variables that are especially important in these processes. Lastly, we offer a discussion of key methodological challenges for measuring synchrony in human-exoskeleton interactions and offer a future research agenda for this important area.

Resonance as a Design Strategy for AI and Social Robots

“…“The field of HRI has largely adopted the assumption that when robots automatically synchronize their movement to users, users will feel that interactions with these technologies are more natural and similar to human interactions…non-verbal synchronous behaviors are used to signal interest, involvement, rapport, similarity, or approval, resulting in highly synchronous exchanges being mutually rewarding experiences for the interactants.” (Kirkwood et al, 2021 )…”

A peg-in-hole test and analysis method for exoskeleton evaluation

“…Cognitive measures, such as, neurological sensors, response tracking, and eye tracking have been used [24] to determine whether additional cognitive load can impact the ability of the user to work safely, effectively, and synchronously with the exoskeleton [25].…”

The Development of the Wearable Robot Perception (WeaR-P) Questionnaire

“…The potential use of wearable robots is broad, as they can assist individuals' ability to walk, jump, and carry or lift heavy loads (Kirkwood et al, 2021; Medrano et al, 2022). Wearable robots have the potential to 1) limit injury risks, 2) increase productivity, and 3) improve life quality for those who may have disabilities, as well as those involved in sustained, physically demanding activities (Medrano et al, 2022; Wolff et al, 2014).…”