Informative but Discomforting. Adding Dynamic Light to a Hexapod Robot with a Soft Skin

Nonverbal communication is important for attaining fluent interaction between people and robots. In the present work, we explore the potential benefits of adding nonverbal cues in the form of dynamic LED light to a hexapod robot. The effects of the added light signals on evaluations of the robot’s sociality and people’s trust in the robot were investigated through an experimental study where the robot functioned as a guide for a human. The light signals used consisted of (1) a periodically dimmed signal mimicking respiration and (2) a signal indicating the robot’s current movement. Study participants found the robot to more often provide appropriate information with the added light signals. Interestingly, we also found the added light to increase discomfort (Robotic Social Attributes Scale) in the interaction with the robot. This previously unreported phenomenon highlights an important issue for robot designers to bear in mind when adding dynamic light.