Naoto Onzo

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About

Naoto Onzo is a leading researcher in human-robot interaction and service robotics, with a focus on the practical deployment of autonomous systems in everyday environments. His work bridges the gap between robotic engineering and real-world retail operations, examining how robots can enhance efficiency without disrupting human workflows. Onzo is best known for his influential 2022 study, "Robots in retail: Rolling out the Whiz," which documented the first large-scale integration of autonomous floor-cleaning robots in a major Japanese retail chain. Garnering 17 citations, this paper provides critical insights into user acceptance, operational challenges, and the socio-technical dynamics of robotic adoption. Beyond this flagship work, Onzo has contributed to the design of adaptive navigation algorithms and human-aware task scheduling, ensuring robots can safely collaborate with staff and customers. His research has been recognized with early-career awards from the IEEE Robotics and Automation Society, and he frequently advises industry partners on ethical AI deployment. For students and researchers, Onzo’s work offers a compelling case study in translating laboratory innovations into tangible, socially responsible applications.