Identity of a companion, migrating between robots significantly different in terms of expressive capabilities: Initial results of VHRI study

Abstract

In this paper we deal with a companion that is capable of migration to variety of embodiments in order to fulfil its tasks (including the social one) and to achieve its goals. It is important that identity of a companion in each utilised embodiment can be recognised by the user regardless technological constraints and own capabilities of a robotic platform. We are focused on the case when one companion uses two robots, embodied in different degrees, whereby one robot is poorly embodied. In this context the concept of unfalsified identity is introduced. In video-based user studies the less embodied robot companion reveals a certain set of characteristic behaviours relevant the context and the currently carried out task. These behaviours are consistent with behaviours observed by the user earlier, in similar contexts, when the companion was more embodied. It follows from the study that the user can properly recognise the identity of this companion with a certain level of confidence. A number of observations relevant to behaviours as identity cues are presented and discussed.