Human Factors and Ergonomics in Human-Robot Interaction Design for Public Space Promote Perceived Safety

Still robots are more widespread in everyday working life than in public space. Favorable and humane implementation of robot systems in public space calls for concepts and findings in Human Factors and Ergonomics (HFE) for offering and promoting high-quality human-robot interactions (HRI) and perceived safety for passers-by and users. A systematic review of the international literature and discussions among experts identified HFE concepts, design principles and design factors of relevance. A system design concept is suggested for structuring results according application contexts. Some adaptations, specifications, and extensions seem necessary to support design of HRI in practice, especially for forming a basis for test and evaluation environments for future use of robotic systems in public space. Despite the design factors identified, more research is required for implementation of performance and safety improved HRI, facing the variability in public space, and evaluating design solutions in day-to-day environments.