Transdisciplinary Convergence of Human-Centric Robotic Systems and Cybernetics

Today's discourse among technical professionals and technology enthusiasts alike is teeming with subject matter focused on innovations resulting from the research and practice of systems science and engineering, human-machine systems, and cybernetics. Whether it is complex systems enabled by cybernetics, intelligence for robotic and vehicular autonomy, new capabilities enabled by advances in machine learning, augmented humans, human-machine fusion, or other forms of human-machine symbiosis, the dialog is vibrant in technical and non-technical sectors of society. The convergence of these focal areas is prevalent at the current cutting edge of technology, but with a more pronounced emphasis on human factors and human relationships to technologies comprising complex systems and toward enabling appropriate human-centric solutions. With cybernetics as a science of, and transdisciplinary approach to studying, control and communications in machines and living things, its elements can be combined to enable complex and increasingly intelligent systems that interact with humans in a symbiotic or collaborative fashion. This talk focuses on such systems in the form of intelligent or otherwise cognitive robots. In that context, it highlights applications involving ideas from cybernetics and human-robot interaction research, considerations for next-level robotic intelligence needed to enable smart human-collaborative robots, and opportunities for leveraging transdisciplinary ideas that would enhance such robotic systems.