Mayara Bonani

Universidade de São Paulo, Universidade Federal de São Carlos

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Mayara Bonani is a researcher at the intersection of human-robot interaction and assistive technology, with a focus on empowering blind and visually impaired individuals through collaborative robotics. Her most cited work, "What My Eyes Can't See, A Robot Can Show Me" (2018, 40 citations), pioneers the concept of assistive robots that go beyond information-giving technologies like screen readers by physically collaborating with blind users. This foundational study demonstrates how robotic physical presence and haptic feedback can transform everyday task assistance. Bonani's follow-up work, "Exploring Collaborative Interactions Between Robots and Blind People" (2019), further investigates how physical collaboration enhances independence and agency for blind individuals. Her research challenges conventional assistive technology paradigms by emphasizing embodied, interactive assistance over passive information delivery. Through user studies and exploratory investigations, Bonani has established a novel framework for designing robots that serve as active partners rather than mere tools. Her contributions are particularly significant for advancing inclusive robotics, showing how thoughtful design can bridge sensory gaps and foster genuine collaboration between humans and machines. Bonani's work continues to inspire new directions in accessible robotics and human-centered AI.