Advances in Human–Robot Interactions Through Multimodal Sensing and Virtual Reality

Dear Colleagues,

Recent advances in human–robot interactions (HRIs) increasingly draw upon the integration of multimodal sensing and immersive virtual reality (VR) technologies to support adaptive, context-aware, and user-centered robotic systems. These innovations, spanning affective computing, behavioral sensing, and immersive simulation, are driving new models of interaction that enhance communication, collaboration, and engagement between humans and robots across various settings, including healthcare, rehabilitation, education, and socially assistive contexts. Multimodal systems, incorporating visual, auditory, physiological, and motion-based inputs, provide a rich substrate for interpreting complex human states and enabling real-time, personalized responses from autonomous systems. The convergence of these sensing modalities with VR-based environments supports safe, repeatable, and ecologically valid testing grounds for the development and refinement of intelligent robotic platforms. As HRI becomes increasingly embedded in everyday contexts, the ability to reliably sense and interpret human affective and cognitive states through integrated sensor frameworks will be critical to supporting user acceptance, promoting meaningful interaction, and ensuring long-term engagement. This Special Issue seeks contributions that reflect interdisciplinary and translational approaches to advancing HRI through novel sensing frameworks, algorithmic methods, system-level design, and virtual environments grounded in human-centered principles.

Fit with the scope of Sensors: This special issue aligns with Sensors by showcasing advances in multimodal sensing technologies and algorithms that enable adaptive human–robot interactions within virtual reality environments. This Special Issue.

“Advances in Human–Robot Interactions through Multimodal Sensing and Virtual Reality”, aims to present state-of-the-art human–robot interactions, highlighting multimodal sensing and virtual reality-based frameworks that open new possibilities for enhancing user engagement, user outcomes, and real-time system adaptability.

Prof. Dr. Nilanjan Sarkar
Dr. Miroslava Migovich
Guest Editors

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