Advancing Industrial Collaboration: The Next Generation of Human-Robot Interaction

Abstract This chapter examines the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI), data, and robotics on human-centric manufacturing, in alignment with the European Union’s Horizon Europe objectives of digital competitiveness and sustainability. It presents the contributions of three EU-funded projects (ARISE, FORTIS, and JARVIS) focused on advancing industrial human-robot interaction (HRI) through technological innovation and cross-sector collaboration. ARISE introduces an open-source middleware integrating FIWARE and ROS2, designed to enhance industrial interoperability, scalability, and AI-driven decision-making. The project validates its solutions through Testing and Experimentation Facilities (TEFs) and an FSTP program supporting SMEs in deploying HRI applications. FORTIS emphasizes adaptive robotic systems that enhance multimodal human-robot interaction, leveraging AI-driven cognition, digital twins, and predictive maintenance to optimize industrial workflows. JARVIS advances intuitive human-robot interaction by implementing cognitive mechatronics, AI-enhanced multi-modal interfaces for human-centric social collaboration, and advanced digital twins. The JARVIS toolset will be demonstrated in four large-scale industrial pilots across the energy, automotive, and aeronautics sectors, addressing diverse challenges in HRI for complex tasks. Together, these projects extend the frontiers of HRI, fostering safer, more efficient, and adaptable robotics solutions. By validating AI, data, and robotics integration at scale, they contribute to the evolution of Industry 5.0, ensuring that robotics systems complement human labor while promoting trust, safety, and sustainability in industrial environments.