Sara Ljungblad, University of Gothenborg, SE
Wolmet Barendregt, University of Gothenborg, SE
Mohammad Obaid, University of Koç, TR
Sofia Serholt, University of Gothenborg, SE
Pamela Lindgren, Chalmers University, SE

In this paper/presentation we present the vision for our newly started research group on Applied Robotics at Chalmers University of Technology and University of Gothenburg. Based on our experiences in previous projects we think it may be time for the HRI field to start exploring the possibilities of adopting and developing a variety of new human-centered design and evaluation approaches. By opening up for co-design and participation to address the phenomenologically-situated paradigm we can start focusing on more holistic and critical perspectives of what humans may need from robots, bringing new and challenging perspectives for robot research. To understand what kind of solutions people really need and desire, we need to take a more situated as well as open perspective towards desired solutions, even if this is challenging. Thus, design activities should take a starting point in people’s existing situations and needs, rather than looking for applications or implications for a specific technology.