Work

Novel framework for automated testing of ill-defined human–robot interaction environments

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: As automated systems advance in complexity, comprehensive testing becomes crucial, particularly for human–robot interaction (HRI) environments where human unpredictability creates ill-defined testing domains that challenge conventional software testing approaches. In interactive robotics, evaluation criteria extend beyond performance to include critical safety considerations. This paper introduces a novel automated testing framework combining runtime monitoring with constraint-based techniques for HRI environments. The framework employs a three-level cognitive oracle architecture – observation, interpretation, and diagnosis – that automatically evaluates the correctness of human and robot actions without requiring expert human intervention. The approach uses constraint-based modeling to handle the non-deterministic nature of HRI scenarios while ensuring safety compliance. Validation through five test cases in a refrigerator disassembly simulation demonstrates the framework’s effectiveness in detecting safety violations and procedural errors under environmental uncertainties.

Source: Journal of Systems and Software

DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2025.112654

Authors: Aitor Aguirre-Ortuzar, Íñigo Elguea-Aguinaco, Nestor Arana-Arexolaleiba, Leire Etxeberria-Elorza, Joseba A. Agirre-Bastegieta

Institutions: Mondragon Unibertsitatea, Aldakin S.L. (Spain)

Language: English

Topic: Software Testing and Debugging Techniques

Subfield: Software

Field: Computer Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,820

Funders: Hezkuntza, Hizkuntza Politika Eta Kultura Saila, Eusko Jaurlaritza, Eusko Jaurlaritza, Electronic Components and Systems for European Leadership