Human-Robot Teaming

Universitetet i Agder
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Technology

Robots are no longer confined to factories or research labs. They are in our hospitals, our industries, our public spaces, and increasingly, in our homes. Among Us: Human-Robot Teaming is a podcast exploring what happens when humans and intelligent machines work together. Hosted by Professor Filippo Sanfilippo, this series brings together leading international researchers, engineers, innovators, and thinkers to discuss the technical, cognitive, ethical, and societal dimensions for different levels of human-robot collaboration. Each episode dives into the challenges and opportunities of designing robotic systems that are not just autonomous but collaborative. This is not about science fiction. It is about trust, shared control, responsibility, and the future of teamwork. Through thoughtful, coffee-style conversations, the podcast highlights cutting-edge research while making complex ideas accessible to students, academics, industry professionals, and anyone curious about how intelligent systems are reshaping our world. Because robots are no longer tools at the margins. They are among us.

  1. 2d ago

    How Imitation Learning Turns Robots Into Skilled Learners - Like Toddlers Breaking Eggs to Learn

    Join us for an enlightening discussion with PhD candidate Martin Økter about the forefront of human-robot teaming (HRT). We delve into how touch, machine learning, simulation, and safety are shaping the future of robotics across industries such as automotive recycling, healthcare, and space exploration. Main Topics:The role of haptics and touch in enhancing human-robot interactionImitation learning and simulation for robot training and safetyModular robotics architectures and ROS for complex applicationsFuture implications and societal benefits of collaborative robotsPractical insights for aspiring researchers and industry leaders Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to human-robot teaming and Martin Økter 00:30 - The significance of haptics and the senses in robotics 01:02 - Applications of HRT in battery disassembly processes 01:33 - The shift from humans teaching robots to joint teamwork 02:02 - Using machine learning and imitation learning in robots 02:31 - The importance of tactile feedback and learning through testing 03:01 - Augmented surgical aid: reducing reliance on cadavers 03:30 - Designing scalable robotic systems with ROS 04:11 - Modular control architectures for complex disassembly tasks 04:49 - Simulation environments like Nvidia's IsaacSim for training robots 05:20 - Safety constraints and merging traditional control with machine learning 06:00 - Challenges and opportunities in long-term robot deployment 06:45 - Future scenarios: robotic applications in medical and industrial sectors 07:30 - The importance of continuous learning and exploration in robotics 08:10 - Advice for young researchers: passion, curiosity, and perseverance 08:50 - The societal role of collaborative robots and ethical considerations 09:40 - Concluding thoughts: a future driven by human-robot collaboration Resources & Links:Nvidia IsaacSim - Nvidia's physics-based simulation platformRobot Operating System (ROS) - Modular framework for robot software development Connect with Martin Økter:LinkedIn Join us on this journey to the future of collaborative robotics, where humans and machines support each other, overcoming challenges and unlocking new potentials!

  2. Jul 15

    The Hidden Power of Perception: How Multilevel Sensing Shapes Human-Robot Teaming

    Human-Robot Teaming, Artificial Intelligence, Perception, Art and Mathematics, Unsupervised Learning, Future of Robotics, Art and AI, Perception and Language, Creativity in AI Exploring Human-Robot Teaming, Perception, and Artistic Innovation with Professor Marius LeordeanuDive into a thought-provoking conversation with Professor Marius Leordeanu as he discusses the intersection of robotics, perception, art, and mathematics. Discover how AI is transforming our understanding of perception, elevating human creativity, and inspiring new ways to live and collaborate with machines. Main Topics Covered:The essence of human-robot teaming: sharing space, forces, and decisionsThe deep connection between mathematics, poetry, art, and perceptionThe role of perception at multiple levels: sensors, semantics, and consciousnessInnovations in real-time art creation using AI and diffusion modelsThe philosophical perspective: AI as an extension, not a replacement, of humanityHow AI and robotics enhance creativity, exploration, and understanding of the worldThe importance of mathematics in technology and AI developmentThe future of multimodal interfaces integrating sight, sound, touch, and potentially taste and smellEthical considerations: security, trust, and the role of AI in societyThe concept of perception with intention and its significance in human-robot interaction Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction to Human-Robot Teaming: Collaboration in shared space and decision-making(02:00) - Professor Marius Leordeanu's background: Robotics, mathematics, and AI research(04:26) - From snake robots to search-and-rescue: Practical applications of robotics in extreme environments(06:10) - The intersection of mathematics, art, and perception: Deep analogies and metaphors(08:53) - Robots as extensions of human senses and capabilities: Transcendence through automation(12:24) - AI as a tool for increasing human consciousness and creativity(14:32) - The concept of teaming: robotics as a partnership, not a replacement(16:57) - The importance of perception at multiple levels for human-robot interaction(23:19) - The challenge of understanding metaphors: language, vision, and context in AI systems(25:43) - The connection between language and perception: building a unified understanding(31:16) - Limitations of humanoid robots and the importance of context and imitation in machine understanding(35:32) - The evolution of human-centered technology: smartphones and multimodal interfaces(38:29) - The role of mathematics and linear algebra in AI and perception(41:11) - Moving beyond pattern recognition: AI's potential to understand life, consciousness, and purpose(45:09) - Perception with intention: AI as a tool for serving human and societal goals(50:04) - Mathematics as the foundation of understanding our universe and AI's role in future innovations(54:45) - Art, AI, and the Smile Project: Creating interactive art responding to human emotions(69:40) - Artistic storytelling and virtual reality: Using AI for immersive narrative experiences(77:29) - Flying robots and extended perception: Exploring new frontiers in aerial AI systems(82:41) - Gratitude, inspiration, and calls to action for the future of AI and robotics Resources & Links:Carnegie Mellon UniversityNorwegian Research Centre (NORCE)Simeon Stoilov Institute of Mathematics Connect with Professor Marius Leordeanu:LinkedIn Join us for a visionary exploration into how AI is transforming perception, art, and human-robot collaboration, and what this means for our future society. Don't miss the final inspiring message from Professor Marius Leordeanu about elevating humanity through technology.

  3. Jul 1

    From Disabilities to Superheroes: The Vision of Human-Robot Teaming That Augment Humans

    Human-Robot Teaming: Innovations in Exoskeletons and Haptic Interfaces with Professor Mihai DragusanuExplore how advanced robotics, soft actuators, and intuitive haptic interfaces are revolutionizing healthcare, rehabilitation, and industrial environments through collaborative human-robot teaming. In this episode, Professor Mihai Dragusanu shares insights into developing wearable exoskeletons, integrating AI for intention detection, and envisioning the future of multi-agent robotics.Key topics The evolution from rigid to soft exoskeletons and their benefits for usability and safetyThe role of AI and advanced sensors in understanding human intentionsThe importance of haptic feedback for trust and control in human-robot interactionModular and customizable robotic systems for personalized rehabilitationFuture perspectives on environment-aware exoskeletons communicating with other cobots and humansThe societal impact of wearable robotics: from disability mitigation to superhuman capabilitiesReusing design principles like AI integration across various robotic applicationsThe vision of collaborative, community-based rehabilitation and industrial work environmentsPhilosophical implications of technology extending human abilities beyond disabilities Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction to Professor Mihai Dragusanu and the theme of human-robot teaming 02:41 - Mihai’s research background in exoskeletons and soft robotics 04:37 - Achievements and recognition at ICRA for innovative exoskeleton research 07:01 - Core enabling technologies: sensors, actuators, and adaptive algorithms 09:02 - How personal disability experiences drive Mihai’s research focus 11:18 - Transition from rigid to soft exoskeletons and the development of twist string actuators 14:41 - Combining soft and rigid elements for powerful, lightweight exoskeletons 17:25 - Disabling vs. augmenting capabilities through wearable technology 19:17 - The significance of intuitive haptic interfaces for trust and control 20:09 - Personal experience with haptic feedback during robotic demonstrations 26:37 - Rehabilitation applications: modular, personalized, AI-driven exoskeletons 29:13 - Tele-rehabilitation and AI for intent recognition in therapy 31:20 - Wearable haptics and tactile feedback in healthcare and industrial tasks 33:04 - Future visions: environment-aware, multi-user, and community-based exoskeleton systems 35:44 - Shifting paradigms from one-to-one to many-to-many human-robot collaboration 40:20 - Envisioning a future where disabilities are integrated into the technological fabric of society 43:01 - Final reflections and upcoming collaborations, including conferences and esteemed colleaguesResources & Links Domenico Praticizzo - Collaborator Connect with Mihai Dragusanu LinkedIn This episode delves into cutting-edge research, philosophical reflections, and future visions that underscore the transformative potential of collaborative robotics rooted in soft, intuitive, and adaptive systems. Whether in healthcare or industry, the message is clear: technology today aims to extend human capabilities and foster inclusive, dynamic, and resilient team environments.

  4. Jun 28

    Special Episode from the 40th ECMS International Conference on Modelling and Simulation (ECMS 2026)

    In this special episode recorded for the 40th ECMS International Conference on Modelling and Simulation (ECMS) in Grimstad, Norway, we bring together three perspectives on the future of simulation, AI, and human-centered robotics. From supply chain digital twins and agentic AI to wearable robotic devices and human-robot teaming in battery disassembly, this episode highlights how modeling and simulation are shaping practical innovation across research and industry. Featured TalksProf. Dr. Dr. habil. Dmitry Ivanov“Supply chain simulation, agentic AI and digital twins: from theory to use cases and implementation blueprints” Prof. Monica Malvezzi“The Role Of Simulation In The Design Of Wearable Robotic Devices: A Human-Centered Perspective With Modular Gloves And Twisted String Actuators” Prof. Filippo Sanfilippo and Cecilia Scoccia“Imitation Learning For Human–robot Teaming In Battery Disassembly: Enabling Technologies and a Collaborative Manipulation Pipeline” What You’ll LearnHow simulation supports resilient and intelligent supply chainsWhy digital twins and agentic AI are becoming central to implementation blueprintsHow human-centered design informs the next generation of wearable robotic devicesHow imitation learning can enable human-robot teaming in complex disassembly tasksThe broader role of modeling and simulation in advancing Industry 4.0 and beyond Conference ContextThis episode is connected to the proceedings of the 40th ECMS International Conference on Modelling and Simulation, Grimstad, Norway, June 23rd to 26th, 2026.CreditsECMS

  5. Jun 17

    The Philosophical Impact of Art That Makes Machines Feel Human

    Exploring the Fusion of Art, Human Emotion, and Artificial Intelligence with Cristina LazărJoin us in this inspiring episode where art meets AI, as Cristina Lazăr shares her visionary projects that integrate creativity, emotion, and advanced technology. Discover how her innovative work is reshaping human-machine interactions and pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. Main Topics Covered:The intersection of art, science, and artificial intelligence in contemporary projectsHow sensors, lights, and neural networks allow art to respond to human emotionsThe concept of emotional loops in human-robot teaming and non-verbal communicationThe project "Paint with Me" as an example of real-time, multisensory artistic engagementThe philosophical and spiritual dimensions of creating art as a service to humanityFuture perspectives on human-robot collaboration and emotion sharing in AI Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Cristina Lazăr and her artistic environment 00:48 - Connecting art, science, and AI through human-robot teaming 01:33 - Cristina Lazăr’s background as an artist and researcher in human-AI interaction 02:48 - Cristina’s previous projects and recent exhibitions in Norway 03:53 - Collaborations with European robotics communities and other scientists 05:10 - The "Maya" project: non-verbal, real-time communication system 06:25 - Artwork as an interactive, sensorized entity that responds to human emotions 07:54 - The integration of mathematics, algorithms, and art in Cristina’s practice 09:34 - The role of emotion, expression, and trust in AI-enabled art 11:06 - The use of convolutional neural networks to make paintings "see" and respond 12:48 - Art as a mirror of the human soul and the importance of tactile interaction 14:20 - Elevating traditional art techniques with multisensory, sensor-based technology 16:48 - The significance of non-verbal languages, mirroring, and emotion recognition 18:08 - Neural networks and AI systems perceiving and reacting to human gestures 19:01 - The importance of trust, presence, and acknowledgment in human-AI interactions 21:42 - Summarizing Cristina’s vision: eyes, brain, and emotion in art 23:46 - The "Paint with Me" project and the fusion of classical painting with AI-driven responses 25:17 - Cultural and historical allusions, like the civilization of Maya, in human-AI emotional exchange 27:08 - The potential to use sensors and AI for emotion detection and adaptation in art 28:40 - The role of art and AI in creating meaningful stories connected to our past and future 30:36 - Art as a tool to evoke emotions and reflect the human condition 35:47 - The journey from curiosity to mastery in art and robotics over decades 38:50 - Returning to non-verbal, embodied, and multi-sensory forms of communication in art and research 41:50 - The philosophical insights: art, research, and the human soul as expressions of the divine 44:55 - The evolution of the expression of human feelings through neural networks and AI 48:50 - Vision for future human-robot teaming: sharing feelings, physical collaboration, and emotional resonance 53:29 - The spiritual dimension in Cristina Lazăr’s work: love, life, and connection to the universe 54:42 - Closing thoughts: art as a divine act, inspiration, and ongoing collaboration Connect with Cristina Lazăr:YoutubeInstagramPersonal Website This episode celebrates the harmony between creativity and technology, and how emotional intelligence shapes the future of human-robot collaboration. Expect insights into how art can serve as a bridge to understanding ourselves and each other in this evolving digital era.

  6. Jun 6

    Among Us: Human-Robot Teaming - Special ICRA 2026 Episode

    Episode Overview: Join Professor Filippo Sanfilippo as he takes a guided tour of an exciting robotics exhibition at ICRA 2026 in Vienna, Austria. This special episode showcases groundbreaking demonstrations and cutting-edge research from leading experts in robotics, human-robot interaction, and AI-driven automation. Featured Guests & Highlights: Syed Kumayl Raza Moosavi presents the work alongside Muhammad Hamza Zafar and Filippo Sanfilippo on "Neuromorphic Event Camera-Based Object Recognition and Grasping Position Detection Using a Transfer Learning-Enhanced Multi-Task Model" (IEEE Transactions on Automation Science and Engineering, 2025).LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/syed-kumayl-raza-moosavi-38b224125/Pietro Balatti demonstrates a markerless motion capture system, highlighting advances in real-time human movement tracking.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pietrobalatti/Erik Ballesteros showcases Super Libs and Human Augmentation technologies, exploring the frontier of collaborative robotics.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erik-ballesteros-9aa25b78/Website: https://thefalcoguy.github.io/Kentaro Barhydt presents Loop Closure Grasping, detailing a paradigm for strong, gentle, and versatile robotic grasps. Relevant works include:Website: https://www.kentarobarhydt.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kentarobarhydt/First inciting work: A High-Strength, Highly-Flexible Robotic Strap for Harnessing, Lifting, and Transferring Humans (RA-L) – IEEE XploreOfficial Loop Closure Grasping presentation: Loop closure grasping: Topological transformations enable strong, gentle, and versatile grasps (Science Advances) – Science AdvancesGrowing sling design: Mechanically Programming the Cross-Sectional Shape of Soft Growing Robotic Structures for Patient Transfer (IROS) – IEEE XploreMIT Press Release: https://news.mit.edu/2025/vine-inspired-robotic-gripper-gently-lifts-heavy-and-fragile-objects-1210Francesco Ferro, President of EuRobotics and CEO/co-founder of PAL Robotics, shares his perspective on the future of human-robot collaboration and innovation in industrial and service robotics.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesco-ferro-88791a1/?skipRedirect=true What You’ll Learn: How neuromorphic event cameras improve robotic perception for object recognition and grasping.The latest in markerless motion capture for natural human-robot interaction.Strategies for enhancing human capabilities using collaborative robotic systems.The Loop Closure Grasping paradigm and its applications in safe, gentle, and versatile object handling.Insights from top robotics leaders on the future of automation and human-robot teaming. Event Details: Location: Vienna, AustriaConference: IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation (ICRA 2026)Dates: June 1–5, 2026 Tune in to experience the intersection of research, innovation, and real-world robotics demonstrations, all captured during this premier robotics event.

  7. Jun 3

    From Rigid Control to Shared Autonomy: The Future of Medical Robotics and Surgery

    Exploring Human-Robot Teaming: Insights from Professor Paolo FioriniIn this episode of Among Us, Human-Robot Teaming, we sit down with robotics pioneer Professor Paolo Fiorini to discuss the evolution of robotic autonomy, ethics, and the future of collaboration between humans and machines. Discover his insights on surgical robotics, trust in AI, and the role of simulation and haptics in advancing human-robot interaction. Main Topics: The progression from isolated industrial robots to collaborative human-robot teamingThe role of autonomy levels, from teleoperation to autonomous systemsChallenges of trust, safety, and ethics in AI and roboticsInnovations in surgical robotics and the significance of tactile/haptic feedbackFuture perspectives on specialized AI tools and the importance of simulation Timestamps:00:45 - Introduction to Professor Fiorini and his pioneering work in robotics 01:27 - Biographical overview of Professor Fiorini's career and achievements 02:18 - Bridging theoretical control and real-world application through robotics 03:16 - Key projects: surgical robotics: autonomy, safety, and certification 04:43 - The rise of Needle Eye Robotics in prostate cancer diagnosis and therapy 05:42 - The evolution of human-robot interaction and physical collaboration 07:11 - From segregated robots to immersive teaming: autonomy levels’ progression 08:38 - Telerobotics, telepresence, and the early days of autonomy in robotics 09:37 - AI development stages and risks: from neural networks to semantic control 10:55 - Shared control and the importance of reciprocal trust in human-robot interaction 12:29 - Ethical challenges in AI: emerging misbehavior and training data issues 13:52 - Control theory versus machine learning: stability and adaptability in robotics 14:19 - Ethical dilemmas and decision-making transparency in autonomous systems 15:14 - The practical limits of AI in safety-critical applications like surgery 16:21 - Mechanical constraints: managing the challenge of safe AI deployment 17:51 - The slow pace of legislative and standardization updates in robotics 19:05 - Advances in surgical robotics and autonomous assistance in interventions 20:14 - Data availability as a barrier in robotic surgery AI development 23:12 - Modeling complex surgical procedures with logic-based systems 25:33 - The unpredictability and creativity of human surgeons versus AI 26:37 - The use of haptics and tactile feedback in medical robotics 28:42 - The debate on force feedback benefits and user adaptation 30:16 - The significance of tactile sensing for learning, especially in soft tissues 33:09 - Challenges of sensory integration and synchronization in multi-modal feedback 35:14 - Future of AI: focused, reliable tools over general artificial intelligence 37:27 - Simulation as a trust-building tool and explanation of robotic actions 38:25 - Limitations of simulation in personalized medicine and soft tissue modeling 39:49 - AI in prostate cancer diagnosis: small steps with high societal impact 40:54 - The importance of balanced, practical solutions for human-robot collaboration 41:46 - The ongoing challenge of connecting generations and sharing experience 42:52 - Closing thoughts from Professor Fiorini and upcoming conferences. Connect with Professor Fiorini: LinkedIn Additional Notes: The episode highlights the importance of focusing research on specific, impactful problems rather than pursuing overly broad AI goals.The conversation emphasizes the ethical, safety, and explainability challenges in deploying AI and robotics in healthcare and other critical fields.The integration of simulation and tactile feedback remains a key area for future research, especially in soft tissue robotics.

  8. May 20

    How Speech & Visual Cues Are Transforming Human-Robot Teaming

    Exploring Human-Robot Emotional Interaction with Omar SerghiniIn this episode, Filippo Sanfilippo hosts Omar Serghini, a PhD researcher specializing in speech emotion recognition, spectrum sensing, and neuromorphic cameras, to discuss the future of human-robot teaming. They delve into how emotional awareness through speech and visual cues can transform collaborative AI systems, especially in healthcare and social contexts. Key Topics:The role of speech-emotional recognition in enhancing human-robot interactionHow prosody and vocal cues inform a robot’s understanding of human emotionsSpectrum sensing as a parallel for decision-making under uncertainty in roboticsThe emergence of neuromorphic (event-based) cameras for dynamic scene perceptionMoving from static to dynamic interaction through high-temporal-resolution sensorsBuilding multi-channel emotion recognition integrating speech, vision, and contextChallenges and ethical considerations in developing empathetic machinesFuture prospects of AI in healthcare, elderly care, and emergency rescue scenariosThe importance of interdisciplinary collaboration for advancing emotional AI Timestamps:00:45 - Introduction to Omar Serghini and his research background 01:31 - The importance of emotional detection in human-robot teaming 02:58 - Speech emotion recognition: what it is and why it matters 05:15 - Using vocal cues like tone and rhythm to gauge confidence and hesitation 06:39 - How emotion detection helps robots adapt behavior and ensure safety 08:07 - The evolution of human-robot interaction from command-based to peer-like relationships 10:09 - Spectrum sensing as a metaphor for decision-making in robotics under uncertainty 12:15 - Robustness in noisy environments: lessons from spectrum sensing applied to robotics 16:11 - The role of neuromorphic (event-based) cameras in real-time emotion perception 17:39 - How event-based vision captures fast, subtle changes for dynamic interaction 22:53 - Integrating multiple sensory channels for a richer understanding of human emotions 25:21 - The potential and limitations of robotic empathy in social and care settings 27:22 - Ethical and cultural considerations in emotion recognition technology 28:47 - Challenges and future directions for emotion-aware AI in healthcare and safety 35:23 - Final thoughts on multidisciplinary collaboration and the future of emotional AI Resources & Links:Serghini, O., Serrano, S., Semlali, H., & Maali, A. (2024, September). Robust DNN-Enabled Cooperative Spectrum Sensing. In 2024 International Conference on Software, Telecommunications and Computer Networks (SoftCOM) (pp. 1-6). IEEE.@ Connect with Omar Serghini:LinkedIn Note:This episode emphasizes the importance of integrating multiple sensory modalities for emotionally intelligent human-robot interactions and highlights ongoing interdisciplinary efforts to bring empathetic AI closer to human behavior.

See All (15)

About

Robots are no longer confined to factories or research labs. They are in our hospitals, our industries, our public spaces, and increasingly, in our homes. Among Us: Human-Robot Teaming is a podcast exploring what happens when humans and intelligent machines work together. Hosted by Professor Filippo Sanfilippo, this series brings together leading international researchers, engineers, innovators, and thinkers to discuss the technical, cognitive, ethical, and societal dimensions for different levels of human-robot collaboration. Each episode dives into the challenges and opportunities of designing robotic systems that are not just autonomous but collaborative. This is not about science fiction. It is about trust, shared control, responsibility, and the future of teamwork. Through thoughtful, coffee-style conversations, the podcast highlights cutting-edge research while making complex ideas accessible to students, academics, industry professionals, and anyone curious about how intelligent systems are reshaping our world. Because robots are no longer tools at the margins. They are among us.

Information

  • Creator
    Universitetet i Agder
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Universitetet i Agder
  • Show Website
    Human-Robot Teaming