Using bio-electrical signals to influence the social behaviours of domesticated robots

ABSTRACT

Several emerging computer devices read bio-electrical signals (e.g., electro-corticographic signals, skin biopotential or facial muscle tension) and translate them into computer- understandable input. We investigated how one low-cost commercially-available device could be used to control a domestic robot. First, we used the device to issue direct motion commands; while we could control the device somewhat, it proved difficult to do reliably. Second, we interpreted one class of signals as suggestive of emotional stress, and used that as an emotional parameter to influence (but not directly control) robot behaviour. In this case, the robot would react to human stress by staying out of the person's way. Our work suggests that affecting behaviour may be a reasonable way to leverage such devices.

REFERENCES

• 1: José Millán, Frédéric Renkensb, Josep Mouriñoc, and Wulfram Gerstnerb. Non-Invasive Brain-Actuated Control of a Mobile Robot by Human EEG. IEEE Trans. on Biomedical Engineering, Vol 51, June 2004.
• 2: OCZ Peripherals. Neural Impulse Actuator. http://www.ocztechnology.com/products/ocz_peripherals/nia-neural_impulse_actuator. Retrieved December, 2008.
• 3: TechRadar.com. OCZ Neural Impulse Actuator Review. Reviewed on July 3rd, (2008) and retrieved December, 2008. http://www.techradar.com/products/computing/peripherals/input-devices/other/ocz-neural-impulse-actuator-269721/review

INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  I. Computing Methodologies
  I.2 ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
      I.2.9 Robotics

General Terms:
Experimentation, Human Factors

Keywords:
bio-electric signals, emotional control, emotional instrument, irobot? roomba?, ocz nia, robots