K. Motokata

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

K. Motokata is a pioneering researcher in human-robot interaction, with a focus on the subtle, non-verbal cues that shape how we perceive and connect with machines. His most cited work, "Can we feel a gaze pressure from a robot? Development of an eye-contact robot" (2004, 6 citations), explores the profound impact of robotic gaze on human psychology. In this study, Motokata developed a head robot capable of natural eye and head movements, equipped with dual cameras—wide-range and telephoto—to track and mimic human gaze. His key contribution lies in demonstrating that humans can perceive a sense of "gaze pressure" from a robot, a feeling of being watched or engaged, which is critical for creating more intuitive and socially acceptable robots. This work bridges robotics and cognitive science, showing that even simple mechanical eyes can evoke a powerful social response. While his citation count is modest, Motokata’s research is foundational for the design of socially assistive robots, humanoid companions, and interactive systems where eye contact is essential. His insights continue to influence how engineers build robots that feel present and attentive, making him a notable figure in the early development of emotionally intelligent robotics.