Expectations of usability aspects for human-robot interactions in manufacturing settings are changed by experience

Abstract:
Personal experience is a major source of expectations which can influence subsequent behavior and judgement. In this paper, a virtually simulated human-robot-interaction (HRI) scenario was used to evaluate which usability aspects of the robotic system are expected most and how prior experience contributes to these expectations. With robots steadily becoming more frequent in today’s work environments, incorporating users’ expectations on the system’s usability into the implementation process is of utmost importance to ensure an optimal quality of interaction. The study was conducted online to facilitate the distribution across multiple companies of the Italian Automobile Industry (N=430). Data on human-related and technical parameters were collected. For further analyses, participants were divided based on their level of experience. The results indicate that having prior experience (working) with robots changes the users’ expectations for the system’s usability. While a self-explaining design and suitability for the task is more valued by inexperienced users, the individualization of the systems is rated as more important when having prior experience. However, all participants valued the controllability of the system most. New robotic systems should therefore not only be developed in a way that it minimizes the need for learning and supports the discovery of its capabilities, but more so that the users maintain in control of the interaction. Moreover, the option to individualize the system should be available to everyone with prior experience to ensure ongoing acceptance of new technology.