Biomimetic Aspects of Human–Computer Interactions

A special issue of Biomimetics (ISSN 2313-7673). This special issue belongs to the section "Bioinspired Sensorics, Information Processing and Control".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (15 September 2024) | Viewed by 6277

Special Issue Editor

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The biomimetic paradigm is shaping a pivotal revolution in Human–computer Interaction (HCI), especially when intersected with advanced disciplines like robotics, mechatronics, and cyborg intelligence.

This Special Issue primarily focuses on the biomimetic aspects that are driving innovations in HCI. It aims to explore how natural systems inspire advanced modeling, sensory perception, adaptive control, and decision-making mechanisms in robotics and mechatronics. Furthermore, it will delve into how these biomimetic principles can elevate the adaptiveness and autonomy of systems, including those in the realm of cyborg intelligence.

Potential Topics Include, but are not limited to:

  • Biomimetic Sensors;
  • Perception Systems in Robotics and Mechatronics;
  • AI Algorithms Inspired by Natural Cognitive Processes in Cyborg Intelligence;
  • Biomimetic Multimodal Interactive Interface;
  • Biomimetic Control Algorithms for Adaptive and Autonomous Systems;
  • Data-driven Biomimetic Models in Kinematics and Dynamics;
  • Ethical Considerations in Biomimetic HCI and Cyborg Intelligence;
  • Human-Centered Biomimetic Systems for Enhanced Adaptability and Robustness;
  • VR/AR Simulators with Biomimetic Elements for Robotics and Mechatronics. 

Dr. Hang Su
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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Keywords

  • biomimetic aspects
  • human-computer interaction

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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14 pages, 1281 KiB  
Article
A Flexible Hierarchical Framework for Implicit 3D Characterization of Bionic Devices
by Yunhong Lu, Xiangnan Li and Mingliang Li
Biomimetics 2024, 9(10), 590; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9100590 - 29 Sep 2024
Viewed by 383
Abstract
In practical applications, integrating three-dimensional models of bionic devices with simulation systems can predict their behavior and performance under various operating conditions, providing a basis for subsequent engineering optimization and improvements. This study proposes a framework for characterizing three-dimensional models of objects, focusing [...] Read more.
In practical applications, integrating three-dimensional models of bionic devices with simulation systems can predict their behavior and performance under various operating conditions, providing a basis for subsequent engineering optimization and improvements. This study proposes a framework for characterizing three-dimensional models of objects, focusing on extracting 3D structures and generating high-quality 3D models. The core concept involves obtaining the density output of the model from multiple images to enable adaptive boundary surface detection. The framework employs a hierarchical octree structure to partition the 3D space based on surface and geometric complexity. This approach includes recursive encoding and decoding of the octree structure and surface geometry, ultimately leading to the reconstruction of the 3D model. The framework has been validated through a series of experiments, yielding positive results. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomimetic Aspects of Human–Computer Interactions)
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20 pages, 4733 KiB  
Article
Movement-Based Prosthesis Control with Angular Trajectory Is Getting Closer to Natural Arm Coordination
by Effie Segas, Vincent Leconte, Emilie Doat, Daniel Cattaert and Aymar de Rugy
Biomimetics 2024, 9(9), 532; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9090532 - 4 Sep 2024
Viewed by 506
Abstract
Traditional myoelectric controls of trans-humeral prostheses fail to provide intuitive coordination of the necessary degrees of freedom. We previously showed that by using artificial neural network predictions to reconstruct distal joints, based on the shoulder posture and movement goals (i.e., position and orientation [...] Read more.
Traditional myoelectric controls of trans-humeral prostheses fail to provide intuitive coordination of the necessary degrees of freedom. We previously showed that by using artificial neural network predictions to reconstruct distal joints, based on the shoulder posture and movement goals (i.e., position and orientation of the targeted object), participants were able to position and orient an avatar hand to grasp objects with natural arm performances. However, this control involved rapid and unintended prosthesis movements at each modification of the movement goal, impractical for real-life scenarios. Here, we eliminate this abrupt change using novel methods based on an angular trajectory, determined from the speed of stump movement and the gap between the current and the ‘goal’ distal configurations. These new controls are tested offline and online (i.e., involving participants-in-the-loop) and compared to performances obtained with a natural control. Despite a slight increase in movement time, the new controls allowed twelve valid participants and six participants with trans-humeral limb loss to reach objects at various positions and orientations without prior training. Furthermore, no usability or workload degradation was perceived by participants with upper limb disabilities. The good performances achieved highlight the potential acceptability and effectiveness of those controls for our target population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomimetic Aspects of Human–Computer Interactions)
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17 pages, 10449 KiB  
Article
Design and Control of a Tendon-Driven Robotic Finger Based on Grasping Task Analysis
by Xuanyi Zhou, Hao Fu, Baoqing Shentu, Weidong Wang, Shibo Cai and Guanjun Bao
Biomimetics 2024, 9(6), 370; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9060370 - 19 Jun 2024
Viewed by 1153
Abstract
To analyze the structural characteristics of a human hand, data collection gloves were worn for typical grasping tasks. The hand manipulation characteristics, finger end pressure, and finger joint bending angle were obtained via an experiment based on the Feix grasping spectrum. Twelve types [...] Read more.
To analyze the structural characteristics of a human hand, data collection gloves were worn for typical grasping tasks. The hand manipulation characteristics, finger end pressure, and finger joint bending angle were obtained via an experiment based on the Feix grasping spectrum. Twelve types of tendon rope transmission paths were designed under the N + 1 type tendon drive mode, and the motion performance of these 12 types of paths applied to tendon-driven fingers was evaluated based on the evaluation metric. The experiment shows that the designed tendon path (d) has a good control effect on the fluctuations of tendon tension (within 0.25 N), the tendon path (e) has the best control effect on the joint angle of the tendon-driven finger, and the tendon path (l) has the best effect on reducing the friction between the tendon and the pulley. The obtained tendon-driven finger motion performance model based on 12 types of tendon paths is a good reference value for subsequent tendon-driven finger structure design and control strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomimetic Aspects of Human–Computer Interactions)
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16 pages, 2382 KiB  
Article
Bilateral Elimination Rule-Based Finite Class Bayesian Inference System for Circular and Linear Walking Prediction
by Wentao Sheng, Tianyu Gao, Keyao Liang and Yumo Wang
Biomimetics 2024, 9(5), 266; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9050266 - 27 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1134
Abstract
Objective: The prediction of upcoming circular walking during linear walking is important for the usability and safety of the interaction between a lower limb assistive device and the wearer. This study aims to build a bilateral elimination rule-based finite class Bayesian inference system [...] Read more.
Objective: The prediction of upcoming circular walking during linear walking is important for the usability and safety of the interaction between a lower limb assistive device and the wearer. This study aims to build a bilateral elimination rule-based finite class Bayesian inference system (BER-FC-BesIS) with the ability to predict the transition between circular walking and linear walking using inertial measurement units. Methods: Bilateral motion data of the human body were used to improve the recognition and prediction accuracy of BER-FC-BesIS. Results: The mean predicted time of BER-FC-BesIS in predicting the left and right lower limbs’ upcoming steady walking activities is 119.32 ± 9.71 ms and 113.75 ± 11.83 ms, respectively. The mean time differences between the predicted time and the real time of BER-FC-BesIS in the left and right lower limbs’ prediction are 14.22 ± 3.74 ms and 13.59 ± 4.92 ms, respectively. The prediction accuracy of BER-FC-BesIS is 93.98%. Conclusion: Upcoming steady walking activities (e.g., linear walking and circular walking) can be accurately predicted by BER-FC-BesIS innovatively. Significance: This study could be helpful and instructional to improve the lower limb assistive devices’ capabilities of walking activity prediction with emphasis on non-linear walking activities in daily living. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomimetic Aspects of Human–Computer Interactions)
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17 pages, 1122 KiB  
Article
Biomimetic Adaptive Pure Pursuit Control for Robot Path Tracking Inspired by Natural Motion Constraints
by Suna Zhao, Guangxin Zhao, Yan He, Zhihua Diao, Zhendong He, Yingxue Cui, Liying Jiang, Yongpeng Shen and Chao Cheng
Biomimetics 2024, 9(1), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9010041 - 9 Jan 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1900
Abstract
The essence of biomimetics in human–computer interaction (HCI) is the inspiration derived from natural systems to drive innovations in modern-day technologies. With this in mind, this paper introduces a biomimetic adaptive pure pursuit (A-PP) algorithm tailored for the four-wheel differential drive robot (FWDDR). [...] Read more.
The essence of biomimetics in human–computer interaction (HCI) is the inspiration derived from natural systems to drive innovations in modern-day technologies. With this in mind, this paper introduces a biomimetic adaptive pure pursuit (A-PP) algorithm tailored for the four-wheel differential drive robot (FWDDR). Drawing inspiration from the intricate natural motions subjected to constraints, the FWDDR’s kinematic model mirrors non-holonomic constraints found in biological entities. Recognizing the limitations of traditional pure pursuit (PP) algorithms, which often mimic a static behavioral approach, our proposed A-PP algorithm infuses adaptive techniques observed in nature. Integrated with a quadratic polynomial, this algorithm introduces adaptability in both lateral and longitudinal dimensions. Experimental validations demonstrate that our biomimetically inspired A-PP approach achieves superior path-following accuracy, mirroring the efficiency and fluidity seen in natural organisms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomimetic Aspects of Human–Computer Interactions)
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Review

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11 pages, 855 KiB  
Review
Human–Robot Intimacy: Acceptance of Robots as Intimate Companions
by Sophia Bertoni, Christian Klaes and Artur Pilacinski
Biomimetics 2024, 9(9), 566; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9090566 - 19 Sep 2024
Viewed by 555
Abstract
Depictions of robots as romantic partners for humans are frequent in popular culture. As robots become part of human society, they will gradually assume the role of partners for humans whenever necessary, as assistants, collaborators, or companions. Companion robots are supposed to provide [...] Read more.
Depictions of robots as romantic partners for humans are frequent in popular culture. As robots become part of human society, they will gradually assume the role of partners for humans whenever necessary, as assistants, collaborators, or companions. Companion robots are supposed to provide social contact to those who would not have it otherwise. These companion robots are usually not designed to fulfill one of the most important human needs: the one for romantic and intimate contact. Human–robot intimacy remains a vastly unexplored territory. In this article, we review the state-of-the-art research in intimate robotics. We discuss major issues limiting the acceptance of robots as intimate partners, the public perception of robots in intimate roles, and the possible influence of cross-cultural differences in these domains. We also discuss the possible negative effects human–robot intimacy may have on human–human contact. Most importantly, we propose a new term “intimate companion robots” to reduce the negative connotations of the other terms that have been used so far and improve the social perception of research in this domain. With this article, we provide an outlook on prospects for the development of intimate companion robots, considering the specific context of their use. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomimetic Aspects of Human–Computer Interactions)
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