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 interaction
• Imitation learning and simulation for robot training and safety
• Modular robotics architectures and ROS for complex applications
• Future implications and societal benefits of collaborative robots
• Practical 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 platform
• Robot 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!

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 Leordeanu

Dive 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 decisions
• The deep connection between mathematics, poetry, art, and perception
• The role of perception at multiple levels: sensors, semantics, and consciousness
• Innovations in real-time art creation using AI and diffusion models
• The philosophical perspective: AI as an extension, not a replacement, of humanity
• How AI and robotics enhance creativity, exploration, and understanding of the world
• The importance of mathematics in technology and AI development
• The future of multimodal interfaces integrating sight, sound, touch, and potentially taste and smell
• Ethical considerations: security, trust, and the role of AI in society
• The 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 University
• Norwegian 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.

Human-Robot Teaming: Innovations in Exoskeletons and Haptic Interfaces with Professor Mihai Dragusanu

Explore 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 safety
• The role of AI and advanced sensors in understanding human intentions
• The importance of haptic feedback for trust and control in human-robot interaction
• Modular and customizable robotic systems for personalized rehabilitation
• Future perspectives on environment-aware exoskeletons communicating with other cobots and humans
• The societal impact of wearable robotics: from disability mitigation to superhuman capabilities
• Reusing design principles like AI integration across various robotic applications
• The vision of collaborative, community-based rehabilitation and industrial work environments
• Philosophical 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.

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 Talks

Prof. 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 Learn

• How simulation supports resilient and intelligent supply chains
• Why digital twins and agentic AI are becoming central to implementation blueprints
• How human-centered design informs the next generation of wearable robotic devices
• How imitation learning can enable human-robot teaming in complex disassembly tasks
• The broader role of modeling and simulation in advancing Industry 4.0 and beyond

Conference Context

This episode is connected to the proceedings of the

40th ECMS International Conference on Modelling and Simulation, Grimstad, Norway, June 23rd to 26th, 2026.

Credits

ECMS

Exploring the Fusion of Art, Human Emotion, and Artificial Intelligence with Cristina Lazăr

Join 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 projects
• How sensors, lights, and neural networks allow art to respond to human emotions
• The concept of emotional loops in human-robot teaming and non-verbal communication
• The project "Paint with Me" as an example of real-time, multisensory artistic engagement
• The philosophical and spiritual dimensions of creating art as a service to humanity
• Future 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:

• Youtube
• Instagram
• Personal 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.

Exploring Human-Robot Teaming: Insights from Professor Paolo Fiorini

In 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 teaming
• The role of autonomy levels, from teleoperation to autonomous systems
• Challenges of trust, safety, and ethics in AI and robotics
• Innovations in surgical robotics and the significance of tactile/haptic feedback
• Future 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.

Exploring Human-Robot Emotional Interaction with Omar Serghini

In 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 interaction
• How prosody and vocal cues inform a robot’s understanding of human emotions
• Spectrum sensing as a parallel for decision-making under uncertainty in robotics
• The emergence of neuromorphic (event-based) cameras for dynamic scene perception
• Moving from static to dynamic interaction through high-temporal-resolution sensors
• Building multi-channel emotion recognition integrating speech, vision, and context
• Challenges and ethical considerations in developing empathetic machines
• Future prospects of AI in healthcare, elderly care, and emergency rescue scenarios
• The 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.