Two Ingredients for My Dinner with R2D2: Integration and Adjustable Autonomy

Abstract

While the tone of this paper is informal and tongue-incheek, we believe we raise two important issues in robotics and multi-modal interface research; namely, how crucial integration of multiple modes of communication are for adjustable autonomy, which in turn is crucial for having dinner with R2D2. Furthermore, we discuss how our multimodal interface to autonomous robots addresses these issues by tracking goals, allowing for both natural and mechanical modes of input, and how our robotic system adjusts itself to ensure that goals are achieved, despite interruptions. Introduction The following situation should sound familiar to most, if not all, of us. You received your monthly credit card statement, and you have a question about something on the bill. So, you call Customer Service. Once connected, you are asked to press or say a number based on your request. After listening to your various options, you hear the appropriate number to press for Customer Service, and so you eit...