Human-Robot Factors: Robots in the Workplace

As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of HFES, this panel discussion presents the emerging field of human-robot interaction as a critical research area in human factors for the next 50 years. Robots in the workplace are poised to change our lives over the next 50 years much as computers have the past 5 decades. This panel gathers four experts with diverse experience in studying technology's effects upon work to discuss the implications of robotic technology for work environments. Topics include the cognitive, social and affective human characteristics that impact human-robot interaction, the potential impact of robotic technology in the workplace, and factors influencing acceptance of robots at work. The implications for design of robotic products and systems are also discussed.