Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Da Young Ju is a leading researcher in human-robot interaction, with a focused expertise on designing companion robots for older adults. Her work bridges gerontology and engineering, centering on how elderly users perceive, accept, and interact with assistive social robots. Ju’s major contributions include quantitative analyses of design preferences—such as shape, color, and size—that directly influence robot adoption and emotional well-being. Her 2019 study on companion robot design elements, cited 10 times, was among the first to link specific design features to reduced depression in seniors. A 2020 paper (13 citations) used eye-tracking to reveal age-related differences in visual fixation patterns, providing empirical evidence for age-specific design guidelines. Her 2021 work (8 citations) identified key acceptance factors, including perceived usefulness and ease of use, shaping future robot development. Notably, Ju pioneered a living lab approach in South Korea (2023, 6 citations), embedding robots in seniors’ daily environments to refine service interaction design. With over 50 cumulative citations, her research directly informs the creation of empathetic, user-centered companion robots, making her a pivotal voice in aging and technology.