Assessing the Creative Role of Cobots in Human–Robot Artistic Co-Creation

This study explores that the creative role of collaborative robots (cobots) in human-robot artistic co-creation. Through an empirical experiment involving three interaction modes (human-led, robot-led, and Co-creation mode), this study investigates how different role dynamics influence creative behavior. The study employs the Observable Creative Sense-Making (OCSM) framework for behavioral, combined with the Wizard of Oz technique to simulate robot responses. A pilot test was conducted to explore the collaborative process. The results indicate that human-led interactions promote deeper engagement, robot-led scenarios exhibit higher structural adaptability, and co-creation generates the highest innovation density through rapid, reciprocal turn-taking interactions. These findings suggest that collaborative robots are not merely tools or creators but adaptive partners that enhance the creativity process through timely interactions. This study provides insights for designing future human-robot collaborative creation systems with flexible roles and real-time responsiveness.