Ming-Jen Lu

Papers

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About

Ming-Jen Lu is a leading researcher in social robotics and human-robot interaction, with a particular focus on assistive technologies for aging populations. His most influential work, "A companion robot for daily care of elders based on homeostasis" (2017, 37 citations), introduces a groundbreaking hybrid system that applies homeostatic drives theory to robotic caregiving. By integrating environmental stimuli with reinforcement learning from human feedback, Lu's robot can autonomously make context-appropriate decisions to support elderly individuals in their daily lives. This innovative approach addresses one of the most pressing challenges of modern aging societies: the growing need for dignified, intelligent elder care. Lu's research bridges robotics, psychology, and gerontology, demonstrating how biologically inspired models can enhance robotic empathy and responsiveness. His work has been recognized for its practical implications, offering a scalable solution to caregiver shortages while maintaining personalized, adaptive care. Through his contributions, Lu is shaping the future of companion robotics, where machines not only assist but also understand and respond to the nuanced emotional and physical needs of their users.