Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Sebastian Glende is a leading researcher at the intersection of human-robot interaction, assistive robotics, and socially compliant autonomous systems. His work centers on bridging the gap between advanced robotic capabilities and genuine human needs, with a particular focus on vulnerable populations. Glende’s foundational research on stakeholder-driven marketing strategies for assistive robots, which has garnered 51 citations, established a framework for increasing the acceptance of robotic aids among older adults. This work was further validated by his contributions to the Robot-Era project, where his system usability findings (31 citations) demonstrated the practical viability of deploying robots in elderly care settings. Expanding into dynamic environments, Glende developed a comprehensive system for socially compliant navigation in supermarkets, enabling robots to perform autonomous scanning tasks while respecting human social norms—a contribution that has earned 28 citations. Most recently, he has broken new ground in accessibility research by conducting the first comparative ergonomic evaluation of robotic object handover for blind and visually impaired users, a study that promises to reshape inclusive design in human-robot interaction. Through his work, Glende has consistently demonstrated that successful robotics requires not just technical innovation, but deep understanding of human psychology, social dynamics, and diverse user needs.