Time-Aware Multi-Agent Symbiosis

Abstract

Contemporary research in human-machine symbiosis has mainly concentrated on enhancing relevant sensory, perceptual, and motor capacities, assuming short-term and nearly momentary interaction sessions. Still, human-machine confluence encompasses an inherent temporal dimension that is typically overlooked. The present work shifts the focus on the temporal and long-lasting aspects of symbiotic human-robot interaction (sHRI). We explore the integration of three time-aware modules, each one focusing on a diverse part of the sHRI timeline. Specifically, the Episodic Memory considers past experiences, the Generative Time Models estimate the progress of ongoing activities, and the Daisy Planner devices plans for the timely accomplishment of goals. The integrated system is employed to coordinate the activities of a multi-agent team. Accordingly, the proposed system (i) predicts human preferences based on past experience, (ii) estimates performance profile and task completion time, by monitoring human activity, and (iii) dynamically adapts multi-agent activity plans to changes in expectation and Human-Robot Interaction (HRI) performance. The system is deployed and extensively assessed in real-world and simulated environments. The obtained results suggest that building upon the unfolding and the temporal properties of team tasks can significantly enhance the fluency of sHRI.