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Interacting with an artificial partner: modeling the role of emotional aspects

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Abstract

In this paper we introduce a simple model based on probabilistic finite state automata to describe an emotional interaction between a robot and a human user, or between simulated agents. Based on the agent’s personality, attitude, and nature, and on the emotional inputs it receives, the model will determine the next emotional state displayed by the agent itself. The probabilistic and time-varying nature of the model yields rich and dynamic interactions, and an autonomous adaptation to the interlocutor. In addition, a reinforcement learning technique is applied to have one agent drive its partner’s behavior toward desired states. The model may also be used as a tool for behavior analysis, by extracting high probability patterns of interaction and by resorting to the ergodic properties of Markov chains.

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Correspondence to N. Alberto Borghese.

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An early stage part of this work was presented at the 11th International Conference on Knowledge-Based and Intelligent Information and Engineering Systems (KES 2007).

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Cattinelli, I., Goldwurm, M. & Borghese, N.A. Interacting with an artificial partner: modeling the role of emotional aspects. Biol Cybern 99, 473–489 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00422-008-0254-9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00422-008-0254-9

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