Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Andrew Wodehouse is a leading researcher at the intersection of design, human-robot interaction, and aesthetics. His work fundamentally explores how the visual and physical form of technology—from prosthetic limbs to social robots—shapes human perception, acceptance, and wellbeing. Wodehouse’s most influential contribution is his pioneering investigation into the aesthetics of prosthetic design, challenging the notion of prostheses as mere medical equipment. His 2015 paper on the Uncanny Valley and prosthetic appeal (35 citations) demonstrated that a device’s aesthetic qualities are critical for user body image and overall wellbeing, a finding that has reshaped how designers approach assistive technology. He further systematized this field by proposing a classification of robot morphologies in his 2024 work, providing a foundational framework for designing human-centric robots in Industry 5.0. Beyond prosthetics, Wodehouse has examined how design influences social presence in telepresence robots and mediated interactions, showing that subtle factors like head movement can dramatically impact user engagement. His work bridges engineering, psychology, and industrial design, offering practical insights for creating technology that is not only functional but also emotionally resonant and socially acceptable.