Investigating Human Behavior During Human–Human and Human–Robot Interactions
This research aims to investigate how different vitality forms influence human behaviour and physiological responses during interactions with both human partners and the iCub humanoid robot. The study will combine quantitative analyses of movement kinematics with multimodal physiological measurements, including electromyography (EMG)to assess muscleactivity, electrocardiography (ECG) to evaluate autonomic cardiovascular responses, and eye tracking to monitor visual attention. By comparing responses elicited by human and robotic agents, the project seeks to identify the behavioural and physiological mechanisms underlying motor resonance and affective engagement. Particular attention will be devoted to understanding how vitality forms modulate motor preparation, muscle recruitment, action execution, visual attention, and autonomic activity, with the aim of identifying objective biomarkers of social interaction. These findings will contribute to a deeper understanding of human-human and human–robot interaction providing evidence for the design of socially adaptive robotic systems capable of eliciting natural and effective interpersonal engagement.
Responsabile Scientifico: Prof. Giuseppe Di Cesare
Prof.ssa Alessandra Sciutti
