Michael Volkhardt
Papers
19
Total Citations
665
H-Index
13
About
Michael Volkhardt is a robotics researcher whose work has significantly advanced the field of socially assistive robotics, with a particular focus on developing mobile robot companions for elderly people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Through his contributions to major projects including the European FP7 initiative CompanionAble (2008–2012) and the German SERROGA project (2012–2015), Volkhardt helped pioneer the design, implementation, and real-world evaluation of home-based robotic assistants capable of supporting older adults living independently. His most cited works — garnering over 120 and 116 citations respectively — demonstrate both the technical rigor and human-centered evaluation methodology he brought to this challenging domain. Beyond companion robotics, Volkhardt has made notable contributions to fallen person detection using 3D depth data, socially compliant robot navigation through lifelong learning, and human localization in domestic environments. His work on visitor-guiding robots in university buildings further illustrates his breadth across human-robot interaction scenarios. With more than 550 cumulative citations across his key publications, Volkhardt's research has meaningfully shaped how autonomous robots can provide compassionate, practical assistance to vulnerable populations in everyday environments.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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- 6Fallen Person Detection for Mobile Robots Using 3D Depth Data28 citations · 2013
- 7Playing hide and seek with a mobile companion robot25 citations · 2011
- 8Interactive mobile robots guiding visitors in a university building22 citations · 2012
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- 10Konrad and Suse, Two Robots Guiding Visitors in a University Building17 citations · 2012