Lilian Chan
Papers
2
Total Citations
34
H-Index
2
About
Lilian Chan is a human-robot interaction researcher whose work explores how robots can communicate more naturally and emotionally with people. Her research focuses on two key areas: the role of sound in shaping human perception of robots, and the design of expressive robot behaviors for assistive applications. In her highly cited 2021 paper "Bringing WALL-E out of the Silver Screen" (18 citations), Chan investigates how intentionally-produced robot sounds—like beeps and chirps—can transform human perception, bridging the gap between fictional robots and real-world systems. Her follow-up work "Designing and Validating Expressive Cozmo Behaviors for Accurately Conveying Emotions" (16 citations) demonstrates how small, commercially available robots can be programmed to effectively communicate emotional states, with applications in motivational break-taking aids. Chan’s contributions are significant because they provide empirical validation for design principles that make robots more approachable and effective in assistive roles. By drawing inspiration from beloved fictional robots like WALL-E, she offers practical frameworks for roboticists seeking to create machines that users trust and enjoy interacting with. Her work sits at the intersection of engineering, psychology, and design, making her a rising voice in socially assistive robotics.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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