M. H. Sonneveld

Papers

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About

Dr. M. H. Sonneveld is a pioneering researcher in human-robot interaction, with a particular focus on the design of domestic robots and user experience. Her most-cited work, "Robot Vacuum Cleaner Personality and Behavior" (2010, 85 citations), is a seminal study that fundamentally shaped how we think about autonomous home appliances. In this paper, Sonneveld conducted in-depth interviews to uncover what personality traits users desire in a robot vacuum cleaner, moving beyond mere functionality to explore emotional and social expectations. She then translated these insights into tangible behavioral designs for a functional prototype, demonstrating that even a cleaning robot can benefit from a carefully crafted "character." This work bridges the gap between engineering and psychology, showing that successful domestic robotics depends as much on perceived personality as on navigation algorithms. Sonneveld's research has been highly influential in the fields of design research and human-robot interaction, laying the groundwork for the user-centered design of today's smart home devices. Her contributions continue to inspire students and researchers to consider the emotional lives of the machines we invite into our homes.