Advanced collaborative robotics will be one of the most promising technologies in future industry (e.g., in manufacturing, logistics, or construction). Human-robot interaction and collaboration will be crucial for enhancing the operator’s work conditions and wellbeing, as well as production performance. In that regard, human-factors, with a special emphasis on cognitive ergonomics are fundamental to implementing safe, fluent, and efficient collaborative applications. Associated challenges and opportunities, as well as design recommendations for interactive robotic systems, must be considered likewise. The general target of the present Research Topic is to contribute to the expansion of knowledge in this field, promoting research focused on the study of human factors and cognitive ergonomics in user-centered and collaborative applications in industrial settings. In particular, it aims to enhance the benefits related to human-robot interaction by limiting, as much as possible, the negative effects on the user’s safety and wellbeing that can arise from an improper design and management of collaborative applications, as well as optimizing production system performances.
