About

Nicolas Bonnefond is a researcher whose work lies at the compelling intersection of human-robot interaction (HRI), affective computing, and assistive technologies for the elderly. His primary research focus is on designing and evaluating non-humanoid companion robots that can establish natural, socio-affective communication with humans. Bonnefond’s major contribution is the development of the “socio-affective glue” concept—a set of verbal and non-verbal cues that foster emotional connection and trust between robots and users, particularly in smart home environments. His most cited work, “The EEE corpus” (2015, 11 citations), presents a feasibility study where elderly participants interacted with the EmOz robot platform, demonstrating how minimal, emotionally expressive language primitives can facilitate meaningful engagement. In related studies, including the GEE corpus (2015, 7 citations), he employed ecological, Wizard-of-Oz experiments to collect spontaneous gestural data, advancing gesture recognition systems for domestic robots. Bonnefond’s methodological innovation—using game-like scenarios to elicit natural behavior—has been influential in designing more intuitive and socially aware robots. His research directly addresses the growing need for dignified, non-intrusive robotic assistance for aging populations, making him a notable figure in socially assistive robotics.

Research Focus

Key Achievements

3
H-Index
3
Papers
22
Total Citations
7
Avg Citations/Paper
🏆 Most Cited Paper
The EEE corpus: socio-affective “glue ” cues in elderly-robot interactions in a Smart Home with the EmOz platform
11 citations · 2015
📈 Most Prolific Year: 2015 (2 Papers)
🤝 Key Collaborators: 18
🏛 Institutions: Laboratoire d'Informatique de Grenoble, Institut national de recherche en sciences et technologies du numérique

Top Papers

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Key Collaborators

Contact & Links

Available for collaboration
Content generated · 13 days ago