David V. Keyson

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About

David V. Keyson is a pioneering researcher in human-computer interaction and social robotics, with a focus on designing technologies that foster natural, engaging human-machine relationships. His key research areas include embodied interaction, ambient intelligence, and the perceptual psychology of robot design. Keyson’s major contribution lies in challenging conventional assumptions about realism in social robots. His highly cited 2015 work, “Designing Robot Embodiments for Social Interaction: Affordances Topple Realism and Aesthetics,” demonstrates that functional affordances—what a robot’s body communicates it can do—are more critical for effective social interaction than hyper-realistic human features. This insight has reshaped how engineers approach robot design for healthcare and assistance contexts, where trust and clarity of purpose are paramount. In related work, he introduced “Polygon,” a robot with minimal realism, proving that even abstract forms can elicit meaningful social responses. With over 47 citations on his flagship paper and growing influence in the field, Keyson’s research provides a practical, user-centered framework for building robots that are both socially competent and ethically sound, guiding the next generation of assistive technologies.