Launched in 2020, the HumanE AI project aimed to develop AI systems that enhance human capabilities and benefit both individuals and society as a whole. In close collaboration with fortiss, other research centers, universities, and industry partners across Europe, the project focused on creating robust and trustworthy AI that recognizes and adapts to human needs and complex social environments. Dr. Yuanting Liu, head of the Human-centered Engineering competence field at fortiss and lead researcher of the project, emphasizes the importance of AI that complements human intelligence rather than replaces it. “The HumanE AI initiative has impressively demonstrated that AI can not only improve efficiency but also respect and enhance human autonomy and self-determination,” explains Dr. Liu.
Significant advancements in Human-AI Collaboration
The project participants made substantial progress in various key research areas during the project's duration. One focus was on human-in-the-loop machine learning, where AI systems actively learn from and collaborate with human users. Additionally, advancements were made in multimodal perception and modeling, enabling AI to process and integrate information from diverse sources and environments. Another important aspect was fostering seamless interaction between humans and AI to ensure smooth collaboration in dynamic, real-world situations. Furthermore, AI applications were developed to address societal needs in areas such as healthcare and governance. Legal and ethical considerations shaped the development of robust and trustworthy AI, with efforts made to embed principles of transparency, accountability, and legal frameworks into AI design, ensuring responsible AI development that aligns with societal values across Europe.
In the project, fortiss focused on collaboration between humans and AI, particularly in the area of generative AI. The Human-centered Engineering competence field specifically combined AI skills with human expertise and thus contributed to the development of an innovation ecosystem in the automotive, fintech and investment sectors. In addition, the challenges and successful introduction of AI are examined and supported from the perspective of SMEs. To this end, the fortiss experts developed tutorials, workshops and events that create a collaborative environment and involve various stakeholders such as decision-makers, AI developers, industry leaders, academic institutions and society. It also translates research into economic value while fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, transparent governance and a strong commitment to responsible AI practices.
A European Label for Artificial Intelligence
Among the notable achievements of the project is the development of AI systems capable of making intelligent decisions in open environments, equipped with integrated mechanisms for ethical considerations and transparency. Tools to enhance human creativity and cognitive capabilities, as well as new approaches to embedding European values into AI applications, were key outcomes that will benefit industries ranging from manufacturing to healthcare. Several practical applications of HumanE AI technologies illustrate the project's impact across various sectors, including Fintech, aviation, automotive, telecommunications, insurance, education, and multilingual speech technology. In manufacturing, collaborative AI systems developed in partnership with European companies provide real-time insights and process optimization, improving efficiency while empowering factory workers. In healthcare, AI tools have been demonstrated to enhance diagnostic capabilities, assisting doctors in making better-informed decisions while safeguarding patient data privacy and security. These applications highlight the practical benefits of HumanE AI, driving innovation and improving outcomes in key industries.
HumanE AI has laid the foundation for a unique European approach to AI development that prioritizes ethical considerations, human dignity, and social cohesion. Even after the project's conclusion, its influence on the European AI landscape remains palpable, as a specialized innovation ecosystem has emerged that transforms research into economic value and societal benefits. In this way, Europe demonstrates its capacity to advance the development of AI that fosters innovation while aligning with European values.
