Towards a formulation of love in human - robot interaction

Abstract

Lovotics is a novel field of research that strives to achieve a close relationship between humans and robots by utilizing fundamental concepts from psychology, biology, neuroscience, and robotics to develop a model that effectively imitates human affection process to create an emotionally engaging robotic system with high level of intimacy. We have designed and developed a robotics system that is an active participant in a bi-directional non verbal communication process with humans, and uses audio and touch channels along with internal state parameters in order to establish long standing bonds with individuals. The novel Affective Intelligence system of Lovotics includes an Artificial Endocrine System and an Intimacy Module. These two modules work in tandem to develop intimate interactions between the robot and humans.