Social head gaze and proxemics scaling for an affective robot used in victim management

Abstract

This paper evaluates the use of social head gaze and proxemic scaling in an affective robot for victim management using two large scale simulated Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) scenario studies.On average between four and ten hours pass from the time a victim is discovered to the time of extrication of the victims [2], [5]. During this time an urban search and rescue robot remains with the victim to monitor their condition and the environment. Throughout this critical period, it is important that the robot interacts with the victims in a socially appropriate way in order to reduce stress levels, keep the victims calm, at ease, positive, and engaged until assistance arrives while preventing a condition known as shock.