Multidisciplinary Perspectives on Ethical AI-Enabled Human-Robot Interaction in Manufacturing

In recent years, AI-enabled technologies have become an integral part of our daily lives. While industries such as finance, healthcare, and logistics have rapidly adopted AI-driven solutions, the manufacturing sector has approached this transition more cautiously. The integration of AI-enabled human-robot interaction (HRI) in manufacturing presents opportunities and challenges impacting workforce sustainability, ergonomics, user acceptance, and ethical deployment. This qualitative study employed operator engagement workshops and semi-structured interviews to identify critical operational and safety concerns in powder handling for beverage production. Key findings revealed significant ergonomic issues, notably physical strain and airborne dust exposure, prompting recommendations for adaptive robotic systems and real-time monitoring sensors to enhance operator comfort and safety. User acceptance emerged as essential but context-specific, driven by mandated interactions and reliant on trust built through transparent communication and standardized training. Ethical concerns focused on transparency, fairness, and privacy, particularly the balance between effective surveillance and respecting worker privacy. Additionally, workforce skill sustainability requires comprehensive training to address emerging roles. The study concludes that a multidisciplinary, human-centered approach is vital for successful, ethical, and sustainable AI integration into manufacturing environments